Bag #8 - A bit fancier than the last one....

[Marcruger]

Hi Folks,

For anyone keeping counting, yes this Bag #8 was finished after #9 I already posted.

I had the inspiration from the ancient steel engraving image I am posting here.  It's not a direct copy, but my interpretation.  I could not figure out the snake shaped pattern on the steel engraving bag's flap, but I am sure someone here will chime in with what that represents.  I used a shell instead.  I am thinking this is a 1700s bag with a European influence, like someone may have carried in the northeast with an early Germanic rifle for instance. 

I added a thinner "hinge" to the top of the flap so it would open easier, but the flap itself could be thicker leather (4-5 ounce).  The bag itself is 2-3 ounce veg tanned cowhide. 

I have been wanting to do something outside my comfort zone, and was inspired by the old image.  This bag took a lot of thinking ahead to determine what had to be stitched together when and how.  For veterans like James, this is likely old hat, but it stretched me a bit which is a good thing. 

I hope this entertains y'all.  Best wishes, and God Bless,   Marc

[Tim Crosby]

 WOW! I like how it finished up.

  Tim

PS: I like how that guy in the engraving has his horse hobbled, of course it also looks like he may be shooting his horse TC

[Marcruger]

I agree.  Maybe the name of this bag is "The Horse Shooter".  Hah!   :-) 

[River Runner]

Another great job!  You're doing well.  Keep 'em coming. 

[Greg Pennell]

Yet another nice one, Marc!  Bravo!

Greg

[James Rogers]

Very nice work. I think that image has a ring on one side and a buckle on the other. It's 1740s or 50s IIRC

[Marcruger]

Thank you for narrowing down the timeframe James.  That really helps. 

I did see the D-ring and buckle setup.  I didn't care for the idea of the strap hanging down over the flap if the strap was adjusted shorter.  So I changed it up a bit. 

Thanks again.  Have a super weekend.  Best wishes,   Marc

[James Rogers]

Thank you for narrowing down the timeframe James.  That really helps. 

I did see the D-ring and buckle setup.  I didn't care for the idea of the strap hanging down over the flap if the strap was adjusted shorter.  So I changed it up a bit. 

Thanks again.  Have a super weekend.  Best wishes,   Marc

A man with taste! I have always shunned that set-up as well because of that. I have some pics of a German bag with that same buckle location and have seen other American originals with a buckle on both sides there but it just doesn't turn my crank to make one like that for the same reason you chose to omit it.

[aaronc]

Nice work marc

[EricEwing]

There is a lot to like about this bag. The shape is really pleasing and all the elements come together really well. The scale and size is awesome too. I love the fact that you felt compelled to step outside your comfort zone and mess around and that you were inspired by the weird and strange of old illustrations, I’ve always found that sort of stuff fascinating and being inspired (almost without your own will) to make something based on the imagination stirred by a simple and very vague illustration is what makes you an artist and not just a craftsman. Also amazing that this is your 8th bag!

The only criticism I can offer is I would be intrigued to see what happens when you start to experiment with different dying methods or avoid dyes altogether.

[Marcruger]

Many thanks Eric. It means a lit from a man of your skills. I agree with you on dye experiments. That is in my very near future.

I did a two-tone bag with light flap back before the last CLA, as well as a light pigskin mountain bag. What I want to get is blonde and russet finished working on tooling leathers.

Thanks again. Marc

[BOB HILL]

Looking good,Marc. Looking good. You’re sure turning out some nice pieces.
Bob

[Icoreiny]

Another great bag Marc!  An excellent example of your leather craft. It’s not only beautifully crafted it appears sturdy as well.
Very Nice.

Steve

[Marcruger]

"It’s not only beautifully crafted it appears sturdy as well.
Very Nice. "

Thank you Steve.  I was thinking that applies to your fine knife work! 

You should see the lobed horn Tim is making to go with this bag for the CLA auction. 

I count myself extremely blessed to be able to work with real artists.

God Bless,   Marc

[J. Talbert]

Very attractive design and so well executed.

Great bag!

Jeff

[hanshi]

Rather than "fancy", I think "elegant" describes it best.  Very, very nice.