Leather grip wrap - looking for craftsman -- myArmoury.com

M. Adair Orr

Hello,
I am looking for a craftsman to create a leather wrap for my sword grip. The grip has a pronounced waist and one chord riser. I'm not interested in acquiring the tools or learning leatherwork. I'd rather work steel with my time. I live in NW Washington State and would prefer someone within the region. Any recommendations?
-Adair

Michael P. Smith · Posted: Thu 13 Jun, 2019 6:58 pm Post subject:

Brian Kunz at DBK Custom Scabbards can do that from very basic to quite fancy, including the options for embossing and wire wraps.

Ryan Renfro · Posted: Fri 14 Jun, 2019 6:57 am Post subject:

Christian Fletcher is worth a try and is over in Boise. www.christianfletcher.com

M. Adair Orr · Posted: Tue 25 Jun, 2019 4:46 pm Post subject:

Thank you for the suggestions. I've inquired a number of places with no takers yet. The reality of small projects I suppose, it is not very interesting for a craftsman.

-Adair

Nathan Robinson · myArmoury Admin

I have moved this topic to the Off-topic Talk forum.

Please note the description for this forum:

"Discussions of general history and other miscellaneous topics relating to arms and armour that do not specifically fit our other forums"

Thank you.

Zach Gordon · Posted: Thu 27 Jun, 2019 4:29 am Post subject:

I know you say you aren't interested in acquiring the tools or learning leather work... but this is just so so easy, and requires no tools --the albion-style leather/cord wrap. Just wrap some masking tape around the grip, and slice with a knife.. there is your pattern. Stick the pattern down on a piece of leather.. and add a little bit for overlap. Use a knife or razor to thin the sides for a cleaner seam.. and wrap it around the grip and bind with string. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTg0Oc0mQy4

It is the easiest way and requires zero tools or experience, if you have a knife/string/glue lying around your house workshop.

There are other topics with tips. It is just so easy.
https://www.artisanleather.co.uk/08-1mm-undyed-veg-tan-leather-a4.html

The problem is shipping it to someone, having them do it, and ship back --it is just more hassle than a leatherworker could possibly charge for such a small project.

Best,
Z

M. Adair Orr · Posted: Thu 27 Jun, 2019 8:42 am Post subject:

Nathan,
Thanks for the clarification.

Zach, It appears DIY is my only option. There are certain types of work that I just can't stand. Anything with fussy glue or solvents or stains just drives me up the wall. I'll forge, grind and file all day, but don't ask me to patina anything!
I've watched and read all the tutorials, but thank you for taking the time to share the link. I hoped to find someone near me with basic experience, making the project more feasible.
-A

Eric W. Norenberg · Posted: Fri 28 Jun, 2019 10:39 am Post subject:

Hi Adair,
If you do go DIY, try to check out a Tandy Leather brick&mortar location. I can vouch for the Shoreline WA shop as at least having a knowledgeable and articulate staff (in the last year at least). They’ll at least be able to offer you insight into working the materials and might be able to point you toward a craftsperson who’d offer services.
Another possibility would be to find your local SCA chapter. They have a reputation for eccentricity but they do have some talented crafters amongst them.
Your metalwork is great, by the way.
-Eric

Max Maydanik · Posted: Mon 01 Jul, 2019 5:13 pm Post subject:

Very funny. I came here to ask the exactly same question. I have contacted both Mr. Fletcher and Brian and they both could not take the job due to number of bigger projects. And all I wanted was to get half-wire on the hilt of my Albion Liechtenauer.
I did the leather handle myself a few times but my gauntlets made a short work out of it pretty quickly.