So I'm ordering a vintage style strap without any holes punched. I want to punch my own holes because I want a perfect fit basically and I want the vintage style spacing of the holes (aka far apart to where only one hole really fits).

Question 1.
I see there are two main types of punches.
1. Hammer and Punch
2. Pliers and Punch

Is one method easier to use for novices over another? Basically, should I buy the pliers type or the hammer type.

Question 2.
Do vintage style straps pretty much only do round punches?

Question 3.
Should I use beeswax to lube the punch? I've seen it used on some youtubes and on a leather website, but I see many posts here where people don't use it. Not sure what to think.

Question 4.
Can anyone recommend to me a quality single-hole punch based on the questions above?

Lastly, I've read several tips by searching here on p.com like Micah saying to lightly imprint the punch on the strap before punching to see if it lines up perfectly. Turn the strap 180 and look at it from all angles to make sure it is centered, etc. If you are off slightly, when you do punch your hole, it'll more or less cover up your light imprint. Practice on sample leather to make sure you are comfortable with it. Also read stuff, like measure, check, measure, check, measure, check again, measure then measure and then punch.

Question 5.
Any other tips?

Thanks a ton!

-Mik

1) I prefer plier punch...easy peezy....Let me know if you would like to borrow it.

2) I've only seen round holes on vintage straps

3) Can't say...probably wouldn't hurt...don't over-think it....it's a hole....as long as they line up you're golden

4) See answer 1 I agree with Micah's suggestions.

5) PATIENCE!!

Hope this helps

Most of the pliers style punches I have used pull the leather closer to one side and since its angled, its hard to have a perfectly flush punch when using that style. I have the pliers style but would like to add the punch style at some point, the angle doesnt really bother me that much but if I were to do it all over again Id get the hammer and punch, esp if you had a garage to work in.

Call me later if you have any questions.

But I recall you had a different one, so if it doesn't arrive, drop me a line. This isn't brain surgery and I would guess strapmakers don't all do it the same, but it is easy to make mistakes even after much experience so don't rush the process.

Vintage spacing is way cool IMHO but if the leather (or you) changes significantly over time, you may end up in between holes at some point.

Happy punching,
Keith

...and thanks much!

1. pliers style punches absolutely suck! The holes aren't clean or straight. Get a 1/8 inch punch and hammer. Get a nylon/poly kitchen cutting board to punch on.

2. PreV and Vintage are round. Modern Panerai are oval.

3. You don't need to lube/wax the punch

4. Al Stohlman are damn fine products. You could by a really expensive one in the hopes that is lasts a long time, or you could by multiple cheap ones and toss them when the edge gets messed up. If you are a strapmaker go with the quality one, if you are a strap buyer/user then a cheap one will be fine as you aren't using like a maker would.

Cheers,


Max / Seattle

"Don't believe everything you think." WTG

Nice one.

You caught me with my pants down.




Max / Seattle

Makes a quality hammer and punch set.

make sure you know where the hole is going to be...... inhale, let out 1/2 the breath, hold and squeeze.
doing it a few times before the real thing helps....

and same advice goes for strap punching... coincidence?

1. Hammer and punch

2. Round

3. No

4. For personal / non-artisan work ---> Tandy Leather products (email me for more info)

5. Start punching ..... only experience / trial and error will warrant good quality punched holes



Good luck!






___________

Jason

Just wanna get that perfect fit!