Oops, failed to mention I also tried crepe rubber. The edge paint is is sitting between the embossment lines at this point so I'm not sure if it's something I can fix or not. Should've been more careful when painting with a contrasting color!

@Leathercraft Masterclass does MDF damage or dull the pricking irons at all?

@martin Nice! I've gotten some of their hardware too and have been impressed with it. They've really increased prices on hardware recently though. Not sure if it's because they're producing better quality hardware or if their site is becoming more popular for those items. I'd love to see a photo of the Licol when you have it finished!

@martin great to know! I am actually interested in tackling that one at some point. Did you buy the hardware from LCP too?

@martin nice! That’s looking good. which pattern is that from LCP? I have a few of their patterns in the queue to try out.

Thanks, Phil! I thought the leather thickness was the issue. I am planning to make two simple straps for it - one that can go over the shoulder, and one just large enough to carry in the hand or in the crevice under the elbow. I'll keep the strap I have threaded in there now but it will be more decoration than function at this point. I'm going to re-try the bag again with a softer leather I have on hand.

@Leathercraft Masterclass no, I must have missed that video. I’ll have to check it out. Thank you!

@Martin CarswelI how do you make your dust covers? This is something I’ve been looking into. I don’t have a sewing machine so I’m not quite sure how to do it by hand.

Hi Lydie, have you checked out Wickett & Craig? They make a very high-end English Bridle Leather that is thick. I've used it on a few projects and have been happy with it. I've always had mine split down but I believe they make some as thick as 12oz.

Yeah I’ve watched that but was hoping someone had the template as an AI or EPS file but chance. I also only saw how to make the template for the gusset/main zipper, not the body of the bag. Did I miss that part somewhere?