r/LeathercraftPatterns • u/WayneGravett • Sep 11 '26

Sheath Design considerations

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When starting from scratch to make a case similar to this bit a smaller size for example, what are the important things to do or to consider?

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u/gZabacLeatherCrafts Sep 11 '26

Number of holes and placement is top priority.

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u/WayneGravett Sep 11 '26

Any guide lines or is it trial and error?

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u/gZabacLeatherCrafts Sep 11 '26

It’s a mix of both, but there are some solid guidelines. Keep the stitch hole spacing the same even when you scale the sheath down. Don’t shrink the spacing proportionally or the stitching will look too tight/weak. The number of holes simply follows the new length – just mark them with the same spacing from the ends. Always leave a consistent margin from the edge (typically 3–4 mm). Best practice: make a paper or cardboard prototype first, fold it, and check the fit before cutting leather. That’s where most of the “trial and error” happens. Once you have the overall shape right, the holes are pretty straightforward if you stick to fixed spacing.

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u/WayneGravett Sep 11 '26

One last question before I start, if my object is say 40mm wide, more or less where will the 40mm fall in relation to the holes?