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Tools for BDSM Leathercraft
If you're familiar with the WWL site or the CDROM Edition, you'll recognize this selection of tools. I've decided to keep it simple and carry the basics: the tools and sizes that I've found most useful for BDSM leatherworking. I particularly hope this approach will help the newbie get started... no intimidating selection, no pushy salesperson.
Here you'll find straightforward advice. If you could get something tons cheaper at a hardware store, it's not on this page. If a tool is only needed if you want to do certain things, that information will be in the description.
If you're just getting started, check out the kits at the bottom of the page.
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Spike setter. This setter is purpose made for my WD-001 spikes. |
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Mini-anvil. If you don't have a very solid metal surface or want to work anywhere (in front of the boob tube, for example), this two-pound cast iron anvil is an excellent setting surface. |
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Strap cutter. An exceptional tool for cutting strap to a given width. A must have if you buy leather by the side, and a probably want if you buy pre-cut straps. Pick up some spare blades, too, in packs of 5. Sharp blades make a huge difference. |
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Oblong punches. These forged punches cut the right sized slots for plate staples (1" and 3/4" for large, 5/8" for small) and locking roller buckles (1/2" for normal fit, 3/8" for tight fit and closer slot spacing), and are must-have tools if you plan to use these closures. Never strike forged punches with a steel hammer! Most of the punches below are unbranded but high quality. I haven't found this manufacture in the 3/8" size, which is a more expensive Osborne brand tool. |
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Lace maker. This is the best lace cutter I've found. It is fast and easy to use, and only takes a little practice to get good. If you plan to cut your own lace for braiding or anything else, this is the cutter to use. Spare blades available in 10 packs, and a sharp blade makes a huge difference in the ease of use for this tool. |
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Mini punch set. You'll make a lot of holes doing leatherwork, and the workhorses of the home crafter's tools are this set and the next one. The mini punch set includes a steel handle, interchangeable punch tubes in six sizes, and a tube wrench. This is a must have tool. |
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Maxi punch set. This set contains six larger punch tubes and the larger handle that fits them. The "wrench" for these tubes is a little metal stick. This is a must have tool. |
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Poly mallet. This mallet has a durable, quiet head weighing 14 ounces. Having tried a wide range of mallets, I selected this one as the best overall choice. |
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Keen beveller, #3. This is my favorite beveler for most edges. Its quarter-round profile bevels edges that burnish more evenly, resulting in a nicer finished product. #3 is far and away the best size for heavier leather. However, if you're only willing to buy one beveler, buy the next one. |
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Edge beveler, #2. This is a chamfer-style beveler, meaning it cuts a straight slant while beveling. This doesn't burnish down as nicely as the Keen's rounded profile. However, this beveler doesn't have a long leading tip and can therefore bevel insider tight corners (like the inside edge of a buckle slot). |
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Adjustable creaser. I think an aestetic crease line adds a touch of distinction to bondage gear. This adjustable creaser does the trick wonderfully, and is easier to operate than other styles. |
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Bone folder. Here's a handy tool that's so cheap it's a must-have. It's made of nylon. The stick portion is an excellent burnishing tool for flat surfaces, and the top portion has several shaped slots to do edges. |
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Rotary cutter. I'm usually the last person to give up a traditional method for something new-fangled, and the rotary cutter is no exception. I refused to try one for the longest time! I do begrudgingly admit, however, that a rotary cutter is far, far superior to a razor knife. Keep it sharp, replace the blade when badly nicked, and you'll absolutely love this tool. I absolutely would not be without one. |
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Poundo board. This piece of 1/4" rubber is a GREAT striking surface. Not only does it protect the tool, it's relatively quiet too. Also excellent as a "second" backer for punching holes... toss a piece of scrap leather opn top and you've got excellent protection for your cutting edges. Measures 12" by 12". |
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Rivet setter. Another very standard tool. This setter has a slight concave area on one end, intended to match the cap of my medium rivet. |
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#1 Grommet setter and anvil. Matched set for setting the #1 grommets available from WWL Hardware, used to reinforce lock post holes cleanly. |
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Line 20 snap setter and anvil. Matched set for setting the snaps available from WWL Hardware (and any other line 20 snaps, of course). |
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Eyelet setters. Select either setter for 5/32" or 7/32" eyelets. |
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Slot Punch. Adjustable punch used to make regularly spaced slots for spots and studs. Variable spacing using set screw on side of tool. |
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Tool Kits
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Basic Tool Kit - If you don't have much to spend, this set of tools will get you going. You'll want to visit the hardware store for a small square and standard razor knife. Includes:
WT-009: Mini Punch Set
WT-010: Maxi Punch Set
WT-011: Polymer Mallet
WT-020: Rivet Setter
WU-005: Wool Daubers (10/pk)
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Expanded Tool Kit - This more comprehensive kit features the tools I consider essential for serious leatherworking. You'll still want that square and razor knife from the hardware store. Includes:
WT-009: Mini Punch Set
WT-010: Maxi Punch Set
WT-011: Polymer Mallet
WT-020: Rivet Setter
WU-005: Wool Daubers (10/pk)
WT-002: Mini Anvil, 2 pound
WT-003: Strap Cutter
WT-004: Extra Blades for WT-003 (5/pk)
WT-012: Keen Edge Beveler #3
WT-013: Common Edge Beveler #2
WT-015: Bone Folder
WT-016: Rotary Cutter
WT-018: Poundo Board, 12" by 12"
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