The Leathercraftsman: A Textbook on Leatherwork

Originally published in the 1930s, this textbook presents the subject of leathercraft in a manner that will be equally interesting and helpful to the beginner and to the advanced worker. The early chapters depict the glamorous and romantic history of leather, the application of art to leather throughout the ages, and the story of the tanning process. Following this is the section which offers invaluable information on the many leathers and tools that are available for use in leathercraft work. Finally, there are chapters of instruction -- concisely and completely covering the various methods of construction employed in making leathercraft articles.

The ultimate aim of this book is twofold: first, to present the sterling attributes of leathercraft to those who have never worked with leather, in the hope that they may be induced to take advantage of its many possibilities; secondly, to give both the beginner and the advanced craftsman an instructive and valuable textbook.

Furthermore, the Leathercraftsman is a book of methods and not a book of projects. These methods cover all important phases of leather work, and through their intelligent application you can make and decorate practically any leathercraft article... As such it is far more complete and valuable than any book of projects, and is, in the truest sense of the word, a textbook and working manual.

Contents Covered:

• Introduction
• A Brief History of Leather
• Leathercraft through the Ages
• The Making of Leather
• Craft Leathers
• Construction and Decorating Tools
• Miscellaneous Accessories
• Steps in Making a Leathercraft Article
• Lacing
• Common Types of Decoration
• Other Methods of Decoration
• Making and Decorating a Typical Article
• Braiding and Knots
• Belts
• Moccasins
• Cleaning and Polishing Leather
• Organization of a Leathercraft Class
• Conclusion
• Index