matt_rost's Leatherworks

[matt_rost]

After a very nice forum member snapped up one of the smaller Totes last year, I've finally manufactured another one in the same color way and made a few small changes, which I believe will further benefit this model. In addition to the new logo, the strap ends now taper to a point as standard ...

[matt_rost]

While continuing work on a large black tote bag with interior compartments, custom made...

[matt_rost]

Final stitches after many hours of sewing. Then some edge finishing and off we go

[seawolf]

@matt_rost So satisfying, right?

[matt_rost]

@seawolf Oh yes! A lot to sew... to meditate! I wouldn't have wanted to make this shopper for myself this way at first. But now I'd really like to keep it for myself. Of course, that's not possible. When I hopefully have more time soon, I'll make this model again in a rough-out version. But first, proper pics of this one will follow soon...

[matt_rost]

Mission accomplished!

The brief was for a shopper bag, ideally with interior compartments, solid quality, all black, roomy enough for a weekend trip, a shopping trip, a visit to the beach, or whatever else might happen. A "jack of all trades" for every occasion, so to speak. Furthermore, the bag shouldn't have too long straps, but should still be comfortable to wear over the shoulder.

During further discussion of the project, the dimensions were also discussed:

Height: 36 cm
Width: 50 cm
Depth: 17 cm

As with all my tote bags, I opted for 2.2 mm thick premium cowhide leather, with the straps made of 4.5 mm thick cowhide. All vegtanned.
This gives it a noticeable, yet still moderate, empty weight that can withstand and withstand everything that comes with everyday life.

I'm definitely keen to make the bag again. What do you think? Maybe a rough-out version?

[endo]

very nice work @matt_rost I admire the precision of your stitching, a rough-out version sounds good

[matt_rost]

Thanks for your feedback, my friend @endo ! I've already secured the leather for another rough-out version. Based on your personal taste, would you prefer hollow rivets in black, like the one above, or solid rivets in copper/brass? ... I'm still undecided on this question.

[endo]

Both would probably look fine. For the more plain design above the rivets you used seem perfect. For a rough-out version solid brass rivets sound good (but I'm a brass fan), copper not so much from my personal taste.

[Inorganic]

@matt_rost what a beautiful piece of functional art you have made....wow

[matt_rost]

@endo I understand. After some thought, I'm also leaning toward brass rivets for a rough-out version. It looks better, and the rivets for the inner pockets can be installed partially upside down and hammered with ball-peen hammers.

@Inorganic I'm very happy about your feedback and that you like the bag. Thank you very much!

[matt_rost]

[matt_rost]

Small tote made of 2.2 mm thick European cowhide. The straps are made of 4.5 mm thick cowhide, all purely vegetable-tanned. Rivets from Osborne, USA. Thread: 0.8 mm Ritza Tigre Thread.

The bag is suitable for all genders and, at 27 x 29 x 12 cm, offers enough space for everything you regularly carry in your everyday life, yet is compact enough not to be too heavy or impractical. I've been using one of this for a full year now, and it's proven itself in constant use.