Formats: SVG, AI, EPS, PDF, JPG, PNG, DXF
PROJECT INSTRUCTIONS:
Materials Required:
~ 4 to 6 oz leather* at least 10.25 x 5.5 inches (26 x 14 cm).
~ Original Blue (brand) painter's tape (not "fancy" painter's tape; it leaves residue).
~ OPTIONAL: 16 metal eyelets, size 0.125 inch (3 mm).
~ 18-24 inches (50-60 cm) latigo leather lace 0.125 inch (3 mm), or thick hemp string.
~ OPTIONAL: Black fabric-spray-paint.
~ OPTIONAL: Liquid leather conditioner (not paste).
*NOTE: Not all leather responds well to laser etching. I use top-grain oil-tanned leather #1026, #1047, #1402 etc. from Waterhouse Leather. It's gorgeous, consistent, and reliable.
Tools Required:
~ Laser >45W with bed >12 inches (30 cm) and head-to-bed >0.25 inches (7 mm).
~ Eyelet hand-press, or hammer-and-peg for applying eyelets.
Handcrafting Process:
1) Test leather for etching and cutting power (my etch power is set to take off the smooth surface but to not go too deep; otherwise the fine details may peel off with use).
2) Mask leather with blue tape (edge-to-edge; do not overlap).
3) Etch the design.
4) Cut the outline and eyelet holes clean-through (lower power machines 45-80W may require two to three 100% vector cuts).
5) OPTIONAL: lightly spray with black fabric spray paint.
6) Remove the painter's tape IMMEDIATELY (otherwise it will leave adhesive residue).
7) Wash the leather sleeve in washing machine with warm water (include towels in the cycle, or the leather will stick to the drum sides and not get a good tumble). Washing will mostly take care of the "burned" smell and etch residue.
8) Air dry flat overnight.
9) OPTIONAL: Condition the dry hide with liquid conditioner using a dark cloth, but not in the etched area (sometimes I don't condition at all because I like the age-worn look).
10) OPTIONAL: Apply the metal eyelets (the holes will hold up fine if you don't want to use eyelets).
11) OPTIONAL: Apply a fun rustic charm to the lace with a jump ring.
12) Mix some icy bloody mary cocktails and enjoy!
Leather does an excellent job of insulating drinks. It can be put in the fridge, frozen, washed. In addition to 16 oz pint glasses, it will fit smaller Yetis and 20-24 oz disposable commercial coffee cups too.
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