No dont use a file. I use emry on a flat surface like plate glass. Go on youtube 'sharpening awl blades and then look for Nigel Armitage. You need to spend time on it until it will slide through the leather.
Yes they need to be worked on mate, and when you think its getting sharp try pushing it through bridle leather. You need to polish it to get a mirror finish on it.
Thanks mate, yes I did my own pattern. I wanted to make one a bit wider and come down to a inch and a quarter strap. ive just got some thick card which is better than using paper I think.
Have you been upto anything yourself lately?
I stopped having it when the peddlers and book sellers completely took over. Ive seen the last copy and not much has changed. I found DH to be a nice bloke to talk to and if I had ever dug with him I would like to think I wouldnt talk out of school and slag him off in public in an attempt to make myself look like a real terrier man.
It is more expensive. I cant remember how much exactly, you have to ring them and the boss gives a price. The Oak bark is very slow to process I think and thats why its more. If you want a small amount to try I might be able to help.
Haha I didnt think you was mate, you can get brass type ones aswell but they are American and you have to get them from Tandy I think. They are harder to work with and you dont gain strength, its just a different look.