The Old Schoolhouse® Product & Curriculum Reviews
| With so many products available we often need a little help in making our curriculum choices. The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine family understands because we are in the same boat! Do you need more information on a product before you buy? With over 5,500 products listed in 52 easy-to-use categories, much of the information you need to know is only a click away! Let our reviewer-families help yours. |
Do you want to get the word out about your product or service to the homeschool community? Email Jenny Higgins and share a little about what you´d like showcased, and we can help with that!
|
Leathercraft Review by Brandie Tesreau
Linda Sue EastmanFox Chapel Publishing
800-457-9112
1970 Broad Street
East Petersburg, PA 17520
http://www.foxchapelpublishing.com
Leathercraft is a book all about leather! Geared toward children ages 9-12, this book will help you and your child will learn everything there is to know about leather and gain the skills necessary for completing 11 different projects.
At first glance, I thought Leathercraft was a ready-made kit, but it is just a book. Only seriously interested children and parents will want to buy this book, since it is pretty involved. Plus, the projects will take a fair amount of time and require parental assistance. The book itself is rather inexpensive. It's a soft cover and only costs $14.95, but be prepared to spend extra on leather, tools, and supplies. I say these things not to scare you away but to let you know that buying this book will definitely be an investment of time and money.
In Chapter 1, "All About Leather," you will learn where leather is derived, the tanning of leather, parts of the hide, marks and brands, and even how to choose leather.
In Chapter 2, "Leatherworking Supplies," you will learn various skills such as gluing, sewing and lacing, waxing thread, and tying knots. Here you will also learn how to case, dye, and finish leather. A list of supplies is also provided to prepare you for the upcoming projects.
In Chapter 3, "Leatherworking Tools," you will learn all about safety, purchasing tools, and getting them ready for use. Skills taught include making a pattern, cutting with a utility knife, punching a hole, lacing leather, beveling edges, setting snaps and rivets, and more. I was very unfamiliar with many of the listed tools, but the book says you can find them at hobby centers or fabric stores or from leather suppliers.
Finally, in Chapter 4 you will get to put all of your newfound knowledge into practice. Each project offers clear instructions, a list of tools and supplies needed, and skills used. Pictures and patterns are also provided. A bookmark, knife pouch, cell phone case, and wallet are just a few of the really cool projects in Leathercraft.
This 120-page book is very well laid out. I thought the instructions were clear and detailed--perfect for someone who is serious about the art of leather making!
