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Joe Meling
United States
Приєднався 23 бер 2017
This channel is designed to help shorten the learning curve to leathercrafting and tooling leather in particular. My hope is that by applying my passion for teaching to the leather shop, I am able to impact the leather industry in a positive way.
After a career of riding bulls I transitioned into running my leathercraft business full time. 23+ is my business name but it is also a daily reminder to strive for excellence. In rodeo, 23+ refers to the scoring system for bull riding where 2 judges each mark the rider 1 to 25 on how well he rides and the bull 1 to 25 on how well he bucks, for a total out of 100. If you scored 23 across the board you would be 92 points. Anything over 90 is considered an excellent ride. Having a 23+ on every product I make demands that I strive for excellence and quality in every piece.
I now offer patterns, tutorials, and on-line courses to help other leathercrafters succeed and be the best they can as well.
www.twentythreeplus.com
After a career of riding bulls I transitioned into running my leathercraft business full time. 23+ is my business name but it is also a daily reminder to strive for excellence. In rodeo, 23+ refers to the scoring system for bull riding where 2 judges each mark the rider 1 to 25 on how well he rides and the bull 1 to 25 on how well he bucks, for a total out of 100. If you scored 23 across the board you would be 92 points. Anything over 90 is considered an excellent ride. Having a 23+ on every product I make demands that I strive for excellence and quality in every piece.
I now offer patterns, tutorials, and on-line courses to help other leathercrafters succeed and be the best they can as well.
www.twentythreeplus.com
Why You Suck At Drawing Patterns
Do you want to draw your own leather tooling patterns but can't seem to get it put together? I want to show you what's standing in your way and more importantly show you how to overcome that so you can start creating truly one of a kind custom pieces.
Join me in the next Pencil to Pattern Challenge. Find more info and registration here:
twentythreeplus.com/products/pencil-to-pattern-challenge?ToPasteBoard&
⬇️Build community with other leather crafters in the The Leather Life Community
www.skool.com/leatherlifecommunity/about
🎁Get A Free Belt Pattern
mailchi.mp/f0d86ed6bc2b/beginners-launch-free-pattern
🛒Shop Tools, Supplies, Patterns & Classes
twentythreeplus.com
✅Follow Joe
joe_meling
☑️Follow For Leathercraft Tips
23plus.leatherworking
✔️Follow For Finished Leather Goods
23plus.storefront
😎For Items We Don't Carry Check Weaver & Use Code JOE10 To Save 10%
www.weaverleathersupply.com?sca_ref=6760015.LKTQAZz254IZ
#leathertooling #toolingpatterns #leathercraft #23plus #pendletonstyletooling
Join me in the next Pencil to Pattern Challenge. Find more info and registration here:
twentythreeplus.com/products/pencil-to-pattern-challenge?ToPasteBoard&
⬇️Build community with other leather crafters in the The Leather Life Community
www.skool.com/leatherlifecommunity/about
🎁Get A Free Belt Pattern
mailchi.mp/f0d86ed6bc2b/beginners-launch-free-pattern
🛒Shop Tools, Supplies, Patterns & Classes
twentythreeplus.com
✅Follow Joe
joe_meling
☑️Follow For Leathercraft Tips
23plus.leatherworking
✔️Follow For Finished Leather Goods
23plus.storefront
😎For Items We Don't Carry Check Weaver & Use Code JOE10 To Save 10%
www.weaverleathersupply.com?sca_ref=6760015.LKTQAZz254IZ
#leathertooling #toolingpatterns #leathercraft #23plus #pendletonstyletooling
Переглядів: 4 977
Відео
How To Start a Craft Business For Beginners in 2025
Переглядів 4,8 тис.21 день тому
2025 is the best time to start a craft business. Become your own boss, enjoy the freedom of making your own schedule, & take the ceiling off of your financial oportunities. Work with me directly and learn from the experiences I've had in overcoming odds & running my craft business for over a decade. The Leather Life Inner Circle is a small group that I meet with weekly online to teach and discu...
Leather Tooling For Beginners - Episode 4
Переглядів 5 тис.28 днів тому
Learn to build a leather book cover. This video will show you how i build a removable cover for a monthly planner. This technique will work for any book. Think journals, planners, Bible covers, photo albums, appointment books, etc. So many options. Also, if you would like this exact planner to build a cover for, here is an affiliate link for the one that I will be using. amzn.to/3D4JOtB ⬇️Build...
Leather Tooling For Beginners - Episode 3
Переглядів 4,2 тис.Місяць тому
This month I am building a cover for a monthly planner. Even if you don't use a traditional paper planner, you can use this pattern on other book or journal covers. You could even use parts of this pattern for belts or other smaller projects. Keep an eye out for the next episode where I will show you the finish and construction process. If you would like this pattern to tool yourself, it is ava...
Leather Tooling For Beginners - Episode 2
Переглядів 5 тис.Місяць тому
Let's attach this tooled piece to a case without any hardware! Watch my dye and finish process start to finish on the tooled piece from last week's episode and then learn how to attach leather to another object. The technique I use for this BBQ case will also work on other things like jewelry cases, rope cans, or coolers. If you would like this pattern for yourself, it is available in the Leath...
Leather Tooling For Beginners - Episode 1
Переглядів 12 тис.Місяць тому
It's gift giving season & this month we are tooling a cover that will go on a case for a BBQ set. As I tool this corner pattern I show you some of my favorite tools & adjustments you can make with the tools you may already have. If you would like this pattern to tool yourself, it is available in the Leather Life Community. There is a link below in case you haven't joined the group yet. Be sure ...
Leathercraft Masters Face Off - Live Team Competition
Переглядів 2,4 тис.2 місяці тому
In conjunction with the Pendleton Leather Show, we hosted the Friday Fun Event where we featured the Leather Games competition. Team Captains Julie Baugher, Aaron Heizer, and Matt Wanner assembled their own teams to compete for the title of Leather Games Champions. Teams were tasked to "Make a bag with a tooling aspect." They had to design, tool, construct, and finish the bag in only 90 minutes...
How To Sell Your Products Online
Переглядів 2,1 тис.2 місяці тому
Do you want to make more sales online? This isn’t something that takes a lot of time or fancy equipment & as business owners we can’t afford not to learn this skill! Just like there are fundamental skills in creating your product, there are fundamental skills to being effective at marketing. I stumbled through learning this the long way until I fast tracked my skills working with Omar in the Co...
Shading Leather Tooling For Beginners
Переглядів 6 тис.3 місяці тому
Shading can be somewhat of a mystery for beginner leather toolers. In this video I break down some simple guidelines to help you add depth to your tooling patterns with shading. ⬇️Learn Online With Me In The Leather Life Classroom www.skool.com/leather-life-classroom-1715/about 🎁Get A Free Belt Pattern mailchi.mp/f0d86ed6bc2b/beginners-launch-free-pattern 🛒Shop Tools, Supplies, Patterns & Class...
How To Start Drawing Leather Tooling Patterns
Переглядів 7 тис.3 місяці тому
Each pattern starts with a base skeleton. This is what the entire pattern is built on. There are 3 C’s that make up the skeleton. Circles Connections Curves In making that base skeleton, you establish the overall flow of your design. Flow refers to the direction your pattern is growing and the overall appeal to the eye. Think about what the overall goal of a tooling pattern is… we want to fill ...
Swivel Knife Beginners Guide
Переглядів 5 тис.4 місяці тому
⬇️Learn Online With Me In The Leather Life Classroom www.skool.com/leather-life-classroom-1715/about 🎁Get A Free Belt Pattern mailchi.mp/f0d86ed6bc2b/beginners-launch-free-pattern 🛒Shop Tools, Supplies, Patterns & Classes twentythreeplus.com ✅Follow Joe joe_meling ☑️Follow For Leathercraft Tips 23plus.leatherworking ✔️Follow For Finished Leather Goods 2...
The Process For Antique Finish That Lasts
Переглядів 7 тис.4 місяці тому
Using antique is a great way to highlight the tooling on your leather project. However, if it’s not applied and sealed properly, it won’t last and can actually take away from the overall look. In this video I show you my simple process for achieving a long lasting finish. ⬇️Learn Online With Me In The Leather Life Classroom www.skool.com/leather-life-classroom-1715/about 🎁Get A Free Belt Patter...
Leather Shows For Newbies
Переглядів 3,9 тис.4 місяці тому
The fastest way to grow in any endeavor is to fully immerse yourself. There are events in the leathercraft industry that give you that opportunity. Classes, shopping, and community are all part of the leather show experience. Stay up to date by getting in touch with these two publications: Leather Crafters & Saddlers Journal leathercraftersjournal.com/ Illume (Formerly Shop Talk Magazine) illum...
Best Tips for Dyeing Leather Even
Переглядів 22 тис.5 місяців тому
It's so frustrating to put time, effort, and money into a project and then ruin it when it comes to the dye work. One of the most common stumbling blocks people have is trying to dye light colors over large areas and keeping the coverage even. Most people try to get even coverage by adding more coats when in fact its better to simply apply a heavier even coat the first time. Sometimes you have ...
Are Handmade Belts Worth the Money?
Переглядів 8 тис.5 місяців тому
There is a big difference between a handmade belt and a factory belt marked as "Genuine Leather". If you are a consumer in the market for a new belt its important that you understand some of the differences so you can make an educated decision on what belt is right for you. If you are another maker that is looking to educated your customers on the value of a handmade belt, this video will be a ...
Vendor Booth Set Up (Vlog - St.Paul Rodeo)
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How To Price Your Handmade Leather Goods
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Best Way To Improve Leather Tooling
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Why Mindset Matters in Bull Riding & Business - The Journey
Переглядів 3,3 тис.7 місяців тому
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3 Keys To Win At Your Next Vendor Booth Setup
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How To Save Time In Leather Tooling
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Leather Tooling For Beginners: How To Use The Tools You Need
Переглядів 67 тис.8 місяців тому
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How I Started Selling My Leather Goods
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How I Started Selling My Leather Goods
Swivel Knife Wins - Tips That Actually Work
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Leather Dye, Antique, & Finish in 2024 - 5 Steps For Success
Переглядів 37 тис.9 місяців тому
Leather Dye, Antique, & Finish in 2024 - 5 Steps For Success
Adding Decorative Cuts To Tooled Leather (How, Where, & Why)
Переглядів 3,1 тис.9 місяців тому
Adding Decorative Cuts To Tooled Leather (How, Where, & Why)
I beat you Chuck! I'm 76 and at much the same stage as you. Thanks Joe, greetings and Happy New Year from GB. Brian, an aging Scotsman.
The only belt better than a handmade belt is a belt that you made yourself.
I admire your videos and knowledge. I recently picked up leather tooling and it’s a start. I’m curious what beveler do you use to get that nice depth? When I use my beveler B203 it doesn’t look the greatest. Any help would be greatly appreciated
Why is every one of my Fiebings bottles an absolute crime scene? Hey Fiebings, how bout a bottle design that doesn't require me to have gloves on just to pick it up?
Luv u'r tutorials... I'm memorized Luv the Christmas tree 🎄2
I'm a widow on a fixed income I'll just have 2 bee satisfied watch'n u'r tutorials... u'r products r like 2 the moon out of my budget. Luv watch'n tho. I could watch for hrs😊
I wanted to learn from this
It is hard to understand when the whole thing is fuzzy. Can't see pattern or the lines he's cutting. I am disappointed.
Where do you get your leather?
Can you do a video on how to make a checkbook cover from a template I got from Tandy
Exactly what I needed to hear. Thank you Joe. New Sub !
Joe, how long do I need to wait after dyeing with pro dye before oiling?
Hi Joe! Thanks for the awesome video. Do you recommend a top coat after these steps, like Resolene, Tan Kote, or Leather balm with atom wax (on both sides or one side)? Or leave it as is? Thanks again!
Why not push the metal to the petal for once 😁 No seriously, this is a very helpful tutorial with great insights. So thank you from someone who is just starting out with this relaxing hobby. Well, at least relaxing to me, let's see what the neighbours downstairs think of it in the long run...
Thank you! Is it possible to "stack" them? For example, I like the contrast and color from the Tan-Kote pre-antiquing... however, I like the idea of a more water-resistant finish (on top of Antique). Is there any reason to not process the leather in this way? I can trial and error, but I'm still buying products and wasn't sure where to start! Thank you!
Thanks, Joe! Interesting stuff! I'm making a leather case for a chessboard, just for indoor use. I’ve heard of melted beeswax being applied as a last protective coat. What are your thoughts on that compared to tan kote and resolene? Also, do you think I should even apply any top coat after dyeing and oiling, considering it’s for indoor use only?
Uuugh! I can’t get Pro Dye in California! 😢
It’s the cup…
You may have mentioned it maybe I missed it, but is the beveler you used for the vine work a Barry king xx steep checkered ? If not what is it? Thanks!
Wow thank you for such an informative video!!!!!
What is the difference between Fiebing's USMC Black and the Black Pro Dye
Great Info. Thanks so much.
I am brand new to leather crafting and just came across your channel. I have to say WOW... you are fantastic at explaining the craft! You are very talented! You make it very easy to understand. Thank you so much for sharing your gift through these videos! I am very interested in getting started and see that you offer a "beginner's kit" but it is out of stock. Is there a waiting list that I can be on? Will it really be available Jan 1? Does it sell out quickly? Thank you again for sharing your talent! Happy New Year to you and your family!
Welcome to the channel! Yes the kits are going back in stock today. Yes the do sell out fast, so don’t hesitate!
@@joemeling3216 Great! Thank you for letting me know! I was able to grab one so thank you again! I also tried to get the leather dye starters kit but it says it can't ship to California! 😟bummer! Happy New Year!
@@hummingbirdinSoCal ya, darn California. Sorry about that
@@joemeling3216 Hey Joe! Is there any possible way to substitute the pro dye for the Low VOC dye also from Fiebinge so the dye kit could be shipped to California? It's such a bummer not to get your awesome dye kit just because of the state I live in! 😭 I know the whole kit is currently out of stock but if there is any way to have the two pro dyes substituted for the low voc dye for those of us in CA, that would be AWESOME!!🥳🥳 I would happily be your first customer if you are able to! Thank you for all you do for the leather crafting world!! 🤠👍
I am not creative
What's the liquid you put on the leather before tracing your pattern? How would you prepare your leather before burning on it??
At the risk of seeming nit-picky or ungrateful of your instruction, at approx. 11:44, you didn't exactly follow the transfer line and curved it a little more than was there. How do you "fix" that? With the stylus, you've already made a line in the leather, so how do you make that go away? oh, asking for a friend, cause I've NEVER done that.... :)
Haha, tell your friend… that’s a great question. Often times just transferring a line a little out of place isn’t a big deal because once you cut, bevel, shade, background, etc. the line will go away. If I have one that I need to “erase” I will use the spoon end of my stylus while the leather is cased and rub slightly to help it disappear.
should i charge more for hand sewing than using machine, i have no machies,making custom holsters
Joe, you need to turn up your mic. I had my iPhone all the way up and could hardly hear you.
Thank for the info !!!!! I’m just getting started!!!!
It helps me to use a wing divider for marking the stitch line first, and then go ahead and use the stitch groover. It's an extra step, but it helps me keep the stitch groover in the right position, because it wants to seat itself in the line I made with the wing divider.
Would this same glue technique work on wood and/or metal? Thanks again for the great tutorials.
Where do u get your leather at
This was really helpful info!❤ I was just watching to help my sketching and painting. But know I'm interested in leather working. It's really interesting and creative. Thank you for sharing! Best Wishes!
I like the one u didn’t put any thing on
This video is so helpful! My Mom’s side of the family is from Pendleton so love seeing things coming out of that side of the state always! Trustworthy folks, trustworthy video. Thanks for the help!
Great Comp!! Thanks for sharing!!!
Thank you for sharing the knowledge you have gained. I really appreciate you.
Great and very helpful, Joe! Thoughtful approach...
Thanks for the encouragement Joe! And yes, I have been guilty of buying into the three lies you described! I do, however, frame the practice statement as "PERFECT" practice makes perfect." To me, this gets closer to what you were describing practice to be. At any rate, I love your videos. Have a good holiday season!
Yes, that is a great way to frame the idea of practice!
gave me ideas, thank you kindly!
Yep, that's me!! That's why I buy patterns!!!
I can't even draw a decent stick figure. I have tried drawing and my brain to hand has a disconnect lol
I’ve been practicing my drawing technique using your tips for a week or so and it’s helped so much! And now to capture the consistency
Привет ...я из России, занимаюсь стилем Шеридан 10 лет, но рисунки не создавал...Ваши наставления и уроки, дают многое. Рисовал 5 дней подряд и увидел, что с каждым днем получается всё лучше и лучше...потом получился перерыв...Сегодня опять начну (собиру силу воли в кулак)...и я верю что у меня получиться...спасибо Вам за Ваши видео...
I can’t draw. I’m not creative
keep practicing!
Practice makes perfect 😊
Nice
@milom.2057 It’s writing with shapes. All letters are just shapes. All drawing can be broken down using letter shapes some forward some mirror.
@ thank you Serendipity. Gotta see it that way and practice practice practice.
Great video Joe. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Join the next Pencil to Pattern Challenge. More information and registration can be found here: twentythreeplus.com/products/pencil-to-pattern-challenge?ToPasteBoard&
Morning.. where can I get my makers mark stamp made. Not sure where to or who to go thru.. love your videos . Keep em coming.
I recommend Steel Stamps, Inc. Talk to Tim.
Thanks for all your videos mate! These are really informative and useful for a begining leatherworker like myself!
you should stick to carving videos