"Rolling" edges?

[TennHillyBill]

I notice in a lot of holster pics, the throat, and also skirt edges, seemed to be 'rolled' nicely.  How is this done?  How, too, in conjunction with burnishing....before, after?  Thanks, Bill

[rickk]

Rolling , or finishing an edge, it typically done by applying a really weird substance known as "Gum Tragacanth" to an edge to soften it, and then working it with a "boning tool". A boning tool probably was originally just a piece of bone, but now it is more often a piece of nylon. Sometimes it is simply a nylon pulley, which works wonders on a single layer piece or leather. For thicker leather (multiple layers sewn together, there are flat tools that can be used to roll the edges over. I have one of those, although sometimes I just use the outside of a nylon pulley as well.

They aren't all that hard to use. Best way to figure them out is to find a couple of boning tools (a nylon pulley and a flatter nylon tool would be good place to start) and some Gum Tragacanth, and some leather scrap, and play with it a bit. Ten minutes and you will be a pro with the stuff.

Rick

[Boothill Bob]

Just remember to use a Edge Beveler first, or else u dont get the nice round edge.
//BhB

[TennHillyBill]

Thanks, Gents.  I had kinda' guessed this was the answer.  I ordered the tragacanth yesterday....be my first try with this.  That nice rolled edge seems to set the work off.  I've got the bone folder and beveler, so just waiting for the 'Gum'.  This is one of my first holsters so appreciate the help.  This leatherwork is quite relaxing!

[Boothill Bob]

Those edges looks verry nice. Good job

[TwoWalks Baldridge]

TennHillyBill, looks great for the first or the tenth. I have found that making belts and holsters has a lot in common with the lowly potato chip.

Bet you can't do just one.   

[TennHillyBill]

Kinda hard to 'splain ain't it?  The leather feels go to work with, smells good, looks good, ages nicely, and is functional..........Gee I wish this described me!  Yur right can't do just one!  Need to order more leather.  I'll get the hang of this yet!  Bill