Post by Galxey Sparrow on Feb 16, 2015 2:11:01 GMT
Always up for debate is which hardware is best handmade or bought items. I think it will always depend on the artist and quality of handmade items as a high quality handmade item will likely be more accurate then an etched or cast piece but an average handmade piece may not be. So which is best for you?
I make all my normal slip and tongue buckles by hand as this both suits the way I work, budget I have and is also a personal preference for the longevity of the leather. If someone would prefer ethched buckles I would happily use them. An exception to this is fancy buckles as I am no silver smith yet so they are all bought.
It depends on what I'm making. If I'm making something to sell, I'll order etched hardware since it's less likely to come apart with use. But for pieces I make for myself just because, I usually end up making my own hardware/buckles since I don't have much in stock. I like making my own bits too and am always trying to think of new ways to make them.