DIY Brief/Attache Case?

bigbris1 · Sep 3, 2010

The pictures make the holes look large but this is a 3/32 punch. I got about 6 stitches per inch. Also, the leather will be darker once it's finished and I think the brown thread adds dimension.

Thanks for the input thus far.

suited · Sep 3, 2010

I think it's great that you're making your own, so props. However, if you can come anywhere near the quality of a good briefcase (which is going to be next to impossible), I'd start selling them. It depends what you want. If you just want something that you made yourself, by all means, go for it. If you want something that screams exceptional quality and craftsmanship, not gonna happen.

bigbris1 · Sep 3, 2010

I appreciate that you guys would expect a result that of someone with years of leather working experience. I am humbled.

bigbris1 · Sep 4, 2010

Some pics of the bag just about complete. I still have to find the correct size brass rivets to secure the lock hardware (there are brass brads holding it on right now), polish/wax the bag (which will darken the leather and add some depth) and make the PDA/pen holder which will be glued to the inside back.

Best representation of the current color:

bigasahouse · Sep 4, 2010

Much nicer than I thought it was going to be from the earlier pics. Can't wait to see how it looks after you polish it.

BlackShoes · Sep 4, 2010

I am sorry to denigrate your hard work, and I am sure it is better than anything I can do, but it is ugly as sin, I wouldn't carry it if it were given to me.

The stitching is slapdash and too highly contrasting, but the worst part is the strange inward bent to all the panel, leaving the seams exaggerated and discordant.

Again, sorry, but I think you would have been better off saving the money on materials and putting it towards buying a nice SAB or similar.

bigbris1 · Sep 4, 2010

Originally Posted by bigasahouse

Much nicer than I thought it was going to be from the earlier pics. Can't wait to see how it looks after you polish it.

Thanks. After a quick polish using Meltonian tan:

bigbris1 · Sep 4, 2010

Originally Posted by BlackShoes

I am sorry to denigrate your hard work, and I am sure it is better than anything I can do, but it is ugly as sin, I wouldn't carry it if it were given to me.

The stitching is slapdash and too highly contrasting, but the worst part is the strange inward bent to all the panel, leaving the seams exaggerated and discordant.

Again, sorry, but I think you would have been better off saving the money on materials and putting it towards buying a nice SAB or similar.

I appreciate your input, thanks.

sonlegoman · Sep 4, 2010

As someone who likes to tinker, I think for the first attempt, it isn't all that bad. If you learn from your mistakes, I think the second one might be better. I think black stitching doesn't look as good as slightly yellowed white.

Can you post pictures of the stitch pattern you're using. I'd be interested in trying to do this as well.

And kudos for sharing.

SkinnyGoomba · Sep 4, 2010

Very cool bris!

distinctive · Sep 4, 2010

I don't think you guys understand how difficult this is. For a first project, you did a fantastic job. Kudos! One thing that I would add to use (and still possible) is gum tragacanth (sp?) on the edges.

Mr. Moo · Sep 4, 2010

opulence, you has it

Blamm · Sep 4, 2010

Carry it with pride - I think it looks fantastic. You have a great story to tell if asked - "where's your bag from?" Better than my - "my wife got it for me at a coach outlet..."

bigbris1 · Sep 4, 2010

Originally Posted by sonlegoman

As someone who likes to tinker, I think for the first attempt, it isn't all that bad. If you learn from your mistakes, I think the second one might be better. I think black stitching doesn't look as good as slightly yellowed white.

Can you post pictures of the stitch pattern you're using. I'd be interested in trying to do this as well.

And kudos for sharing.

My wife said the same thing about the thread color until it was close to done. I like the contrast.

Originally Posted by SkinnyGoomba

Very cool bris!

Thanks man.

Originally Posted by distinctive

I don't think you guys understand how difficult this is. For a first project, you did a fantastic job. Kudos! One thing that I would add to use (and still possible) is gum tragacanth (sp?) on the edges.

Very difficult. Fingers are sore. Sewing leather it quite the challenge. I used Kiwi sole edge dressing on the edges to darken/moisten it, then neutral wax and rubbed with a cloth tied around my finger. Seems I got the same result with much less work.

Originally Posted by Mr. Moo

opulence, you has it

Thanks son!

bigbris1 · Sep 4, 2010

Originally Posted by Blamm

Carry it with pride - I think it looks fantastic. You have a great story to tell if asked - "where's your bag from?" Better than my - "my wife got it for me at a coach outlet..."
Thanks man. Welcome to teh forum. I wanted the bag to look like it was made by hand. Much more believable that way.

DIY Brief/Attache Case?

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