Covering a cart handle

[Loophole LaRue]

I'm covering a tubular cart handle and frame in leather.  I intend to cut strips from the hide, bend them over longways, punch matching holes with an awl, unfold, wrap them around the frame, and stich the seam with two needles (I know there is a name for this, but it escapes me).  When I'm done, I want it to look like the leather wraps common on sailboat wheel.

Does this sound basically right, or am I missing something critical?  Should I stretch the leather taut, or just wrap it easy?  Will it stretch with time, or shrink?

Many thanks for the help.

LL

[MontanaSlick]

Loop,
I did mine in deer skin, stitched it up , no stretching needed.

Ital look good.

MS

[Loophole LaRue]

Thanks, Montana...that's exactly what I'm using.

LL

[MontanaSlick]

LL, post a pik when ya get done eh.

MS