I made a few DIY purse kits before, and this one was the most challenging for sure. I’m a beginner to leather crafting, and all I made were some coasters and wallets and leather crafting kits. Thankfully, because of this pre-knowledge, I was able to figure out the video instructions as well as the info it does NOT tell you (like how to edge-paint).
Do NOT buy this as your first DIY purse kit. Get the optional tools if you aren’t willing to invest in getting quality tools as a budding leather crafter. The tools given are pretty good quality for beginners to the craft, but they are no means professional quality tools.
If you DO want to order your own tools, here are the tools they DON’T say you actually need in the description (other than the edge paint, leather glue, scissors, cutting mat, and ruler): you’ll need a 2.7mm French pricking iron set, oblong and rectangular punch (sorry, don’t know what size. Just get a set), 1.5mm round drive punch, 0.4mm waxed thread (or something around that size), 1/8” (or 3mm) double-sided tape, 1/2” nylon tape, sand paper (120, 400, and 800 grit), edge dye roller pen, about an ounce of beeswax, good quality mallet (a poly/rubber mallet if you’re afraid of damaging your tools, or a round head maul if you’re weak and need the extra weight to punch through the leather), optional tweezers if you got fat, clumsy fingers (the hardware rivets are TINY), a #1 Phillips screwdriver, #2 x-acto knife, optional poundo board or granite slab (a good quality table or piece of wood will do in a pinch).
I loved making this bag, and it turned out so well with white edge coat. I have used the bag all summer and the quality of the leather is just great.
This was my first advanced kit. It was so fun to make and I learned a lot from it. I loved the result so much that I ordered it in two more colors. Recommend new buyers to order the tool kit to make sure you have everything you need to get the best result. The leather feels and smells amazing!
POPSEWING® Full Grain Leather Inspired Kelly Clutch - Advanced DIY Kits