If you haven't tried it, I teach people to model their helm design using a cheap rubber kickball about the size of their head.It's nice for people who want to start making rounder forms but aren't sure where to get that basic round shape to break down.
That's a great tip! I know other people use bowling balls or mannequin heads, but a kickball is probably the most accessible and inexpensive choice. Personally, for the 4 panel helms that I make, I've had good luck with just using my knee to shape the individual panels then my head itself for the final shaping.
A cutter with a compound action for cutting off the shanks with less force than the linesman pliers. Some of the larger jewelry sprue cutters are perfect for this and are pretty cheap.
That's a great option! My goal was to keep this to tools that are very easily found; but definitely agreed there -- compound cutting mechanisms can definitely make things a lot smoother.
If you haven't tried it, I teach people to model their helm design using a cheap rubber kickball about the size of their head.It's nice for people who want to start making rounder forms but aren't sure where to get that basic round shape to break down.
That's a great tip! I know other people use bowling balls or mannequin heads, but a kickball is probably the most accessible and inexpensive choice. Personally, for the 4 panel helms that I make, I've had good luck with just using my knee to shape the individual panels then my head itself for the final shaping.
What's on your list of required tools for basic leather work?
A cutter with a compound action for cutting off the shanks with less force than the linesman pliers. Some of the larger jewelry sprue cutters are perfect for this and are pretty cheap.
That's a great option! My goal was to keep this to tools that are very easily found; but definitely agreed there -- compound cutting mechanisms can definitely make things a lot smoother.
Couldn't keep watching after the third "obviously" appreciate a good tool tutorial though.