Strander/Beveler

[Cracker]

I just stumbled across this on Bernie's website. This looks like a really quality tool for anyone that is interested. It actually looks just like the one Bernie uses himself.
http://www.em-brand-whips.com/tools.htm
Jim

[jeanfifi]

Thanks for the link. I've seen it on the whip basics forum too.
I still wonder please tell me:
If great whipmakers like Bernie use this kind of tools, it must be a great help:easy and fast. So what about the australian skill (meaning cutting and skiving free hands)?
It didn't takes me long to learn it, but is it useless to learn?
Thanks

JP

[Cracker]

I think it just all depends on what your used to using. I'm terrible at cutting free hand, only do it when necessary during plaiting. I like the consistency of a tool, but that's because I'm not consistent by hand. Bernie says in his video if I remember correctly, that he has been using them for years and prefers them over freehand cutting.

Jim

[Marhala]

I remember I was soooo afraid to even try to place my thumbnail near the leather. I made a gauge like the one DM sells in his website, but it was sooo slow and daunting to adjust it. Now I cut freehand and results are quite similar, but a bit faster.

I've heard that the Dean Williams strand cutter is even better for the job, because it allows you to change widths while cutting, thus tapering the lace.

Oh, I see. I had a very hard time beveling cowhide, but beveling kangaroo is so much easier... it even makes me laugh. As you said, it serves depending on your ability, and there's no wrong or right in whipmaking. If either way helps you achieve a superior quality, then that's all that matters. The good part of beveling by hand is that you straighten the lace if you cut a bit uneven.

All the best,

Aldo.

[jeanfifi]

Thanks for your answers guys!

Sure, what works best for me is what to use.
I am still amazed by the free hands skills, and by the cleverness of those who creates tools.....

JP

[Marhala]

Thanks for sharing Jim! And thank you for your thoughts too, Jean!

BTW, are you still working on that stockwhip...?