Commissioning my First Briefcase - Page 4

Oops, thank you. Fixed it in my post as well.

Any updates?  How's it holding up?

Maybe a little loctite on the screw?

The red loctite loosens up when you heat it to facilitate removal.

I haven't, but the one side screws into the other on the Chicago screw, correct?  I think that this would be less of an issue that if the thread touched the leather.  I'd apply the loctite, tighten it the amount you'd like, then leave it.  It should stay as intended.

Hey guys,

I have yet to try Loctite on the screws on my bags, but it has been my suggestion for those who have asked. I include a few spare screws with each bag and let customers know that the leather will stretch and screws may loosen.

If you are wondering why I prefer the screws over rivets or other fasteners, it goes back to the Henry Ford/Leo Fender(the guitar guy) "interchangeable parts" philosophy first and foremost. If a strap breaks, it is much easier to just unscrew the screw and replace the strap. I also like they way they look, but this is a secondary concern.

I completely understand that it takes a different level of attention on the part of the user to know that you may have to tighten some screws after a few weeks, but this to me is akin to the type of specialized care given to raw denim, cordovan leather shoes, (or any quality leather product for that matter), and on and on. I would be happy to use rivets if a customer requested them, but I also feel that, for whatever it is worth, the Chicago screw set my products apart from others.

I appreciate all the comments, as it helps me to see opportunities for improvement in terms of the design and craft of my products. As I may have stated previously I have only been seriously involved in this craft for a couple of years, so I have much to learn.

Thanks, 

Chris Woodhead, builder

The Sawyer Cabinet Co.

Blue Loctite

http://www.loctiteproducts.com/p/t_lkr_blue/overview/Loctite-Threadlocker-Blue-242.htm