Hello all, I'm looking for any and all constructive criticism. I know I have a lot to learn when it comes to leatherwork so fire away.
What you are looking at is what I call "practice pants" 😜, it's a prototype of a small Gladstone bag that I designed. Although it's so basic I feel awkward saying designed, more like made my own pattern. The leather I used was cheap 2oz- craft/veg tan from Tandy.
I will start it off with-"Next time when sewing the stiffener to the bottom panel remember to use the leather feet you purchased so as not to leave a race track on the bottom of the bag." 🤣
Jacob





Thank you for taking the time to share your insights with me, I truly appreciate it. I will be sure to add these details to V2.
Thanks,
Jacob
I like it! It shows great potential.
I agree with @ffzanchetta. Here are some other ideas too:
The leather wrap around the handle could be stitched tighter to avoid creasing
The chapes would do better with reinforcement on the inside. If I can see it's not reinforced, they too would look neater stitched a little tighter around the brass loop.
That brass loops could do with being smaller to match the width of the handle and the bag attachments.
The lining would benefit from being sewn to the leather around the hinge point to prevent seeing the bag flesh side at that point.
Still, great job!
Hey Jacob,
Congratulations, really cool bag!
In my opinion it's all about the details from now on. Here's my three main points:
I think a slightly smaller hardware for the handles would look better. This way the handles wouldn't slide and I think it would make it look more like made for it.
I think the edges could be finished, either burnishing or edge paint. I know some people like the raw edge, but I think it makes for a much nicer look having it finished.
The third thing you could consider is making raised chapes and/or strap (the closure one) to give it some flare. Right now they are flat but having some raised areas could make it more visually interesting. Or perhaps using some edge creaser to add some detail.
Nice work!