Description
Don Gonzales
Edward A. Whitney Academic Center – W 203 A+B
Wednesday 05/14 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Advanced
Workshop Description: The Western Style Guitar Strap has been one of DG LeatherCraft’s more popular pattern packs and its project video on their YouTube channel has been viewed by many craftsmen wanting to try their hand at making one of these. In this workshop, we will work on our floral carving skills with a focus on swivel knife work along with all other aspects of fine floral stamping. Options for each student will include incorporating some of their preferred geometric stamping, adding initials or brands, and a limited choice of finishing techniques. The project in this class will also have the option of being lined with a veg tanned liner for a smooth backing, or leaving it unlined for a more rough, natural backing. {You’ll be using COBRA Class 18 and Class 26 sewing machines; if you are interested in purchasing COBRA equipment at the show, call Leather Machine Company by February 1 to pre-order at +1 (866) 962-9880. Deposit required.}
Materials to bring: Marble/granite tooling stone, floral stamping tools, swivel knife, mallet/maul, geometric tool of your choice, maker’s stamp (if you have one), trim knife, X-acto knife, blue painter’s tape, #3 or #4 edger, edge slicking supplies(small can for water, canvas, rub stick, dauber), paper towels, notebook, pen/pencil, transfer film/paper, strop, cutting board, 1″ bag slot punch, #10 or #12 drive hole punch, and (optional) a headlamp/magnifier.
Workshop Instructor: Don Gonzales become interested in leathercraft while in 8th grade, when a friend’s father shared some simple skills with him. He went from making sheaths and belts and saddle repairs to eventually owning his own shop and going full-time in 2004. He credits Jimmy Plantt for many life lessons and skills learned, in addition to those from his many online friends. In October of 2020, Don launched a new, weekly podcast, Lost Trade. Don lives in Moulton, Texas.
Workshop Sponsors: Hermann Oak Leather Co., The Fiebing Co., Leather Machine Co., LLC, and Renia USA
CANCELLATION POLICY
• There is a $25 administration fee per cancellation.
• The cost of each workshop will be refunded minus the $25 fee.
• No refunds for workshops after Friday, May 9, 2025.