Custom Leather Holster Pattern Making // Pancake Holster // Scabbard Holster // How It's Made

Published on December 7, 2018
Duration: 12:24

This guide details the process of creating custom leather holster patterns, specifically for Pancake and Scabbard styles, as demonstrated by Sam Andrews of Andrews Custom Leather. It emphasizes the critical role of accurate pattern making for proper holster function and provides step-by-step instructions for tracing, measuring, and refining patterns using common materials like manila folders. The expert instruction highlights techniques for ensuring a precise fit and discusses the use of welts for enhanced durability.

Quick Summary

Learn expert techniques for custom leather holster pattern making from Sam Andrews of Andrews Custom Leather. Key steps include accurate firearm tracing, using leather strips for precise measurements, and careful alignment of pattern pieces for both Pancake and Scabbard styles. Essential tools include manila folders, sharp scissors, and a ruler.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Holster Pattern Making
  2. 00:50Holster Style Definitions
  3. 01:33Pancake Holster Pattern Demonstration
  4. 03:58Creating the Back Piece
  5. 06:45Scabbard Holster Pattern Demonstration
  6. 09:52Refining the Scabbard and Using Welts
  7. 10:51Tools and Materials Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key steps in making a custom leather holster pattern?

Start by tracing your firearm onto pattern material like manila folders. Use a leather strip of the intended weight to measure stitching offsets and ensure proper firearm accommodation. Cut out front and back pieces, aligning them carefully. For scabbard styles, incorporate a center line and consider using a welt for added strength and space.

What tools are essential for creating leather holster patterns?

Essential tools include manila folders for patterns, high-quality knife-edged scissors for precise cuts, a ballpoint pen for tracing, a ruler for measurements, a strip of the actual leather weight you'll use, and the firearm itself for accurate templating.

What is the difference between a Pancake and a Scabbard style holster pattern?

A Pancake (or Saddle) style holster pattern involves two separate pieces of leather sewn together to form the holster body. A Scabbard style holster pattern is typically made from a single piece of leather that wraps around the firearm and is sewn along the rear edge.

Why is using a leather strip important when making a holster pattern?

Using a strip of the actual leather weight you plan to use for the holster helps accurately determine the necessary width for stitching lines and the overall dimensions. This ensures the pattern accounts for the leather's thickness and how it will mold around the firearm.

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