I’m looking to make some new leather armour. Where can I source the leather for it? My current set was made mostly with Derek’s help, including getting some of his leather supplies.
I shop at lapco.co.nz/ - They have a shop in Mt Eden. Not sure how they compare price wise but they do have a wide range of tools and they have an offcuts bin which is great for smaller projects. They had larger pieces that ranged from $1 or $2 a square foot all the way up to “OMG I wouldn’t pay that for leather” a square metre.
The woman that works there is very helpful for beginners, the men just sort of tell you the prices if you ask.
Lapco is great and right up there for competitive prices
If you are looking to make some then that is your best bet. If you want to buy then there are plenty of places on the web. Its just picking a style.
this is good to know seeing as I think I maybe making a couple pair of shoes in the future… if I can solve some sole issues…
If you want large pieces of leather then I’ve found Fern Country Leathers in Avondale good in the past, although it’s been years since I went. They had large leather skin seconds at very reasonable prices. For larp purposes it’s good that it’s a “second”, means it’s cheap and will have some character. A lot of the NZLARPS armour is made from leathers from there.
I’m pretty sure they have closed down. They weren’t there last time I went
trademe is a pretty good source
what colour / weight are you after?
A dark brown, or grey.
Thickness along the lines of the leather used in the Oriental armour set you’ve made Derek. Though some of the thinner stuff for a few more pouches etc would be good too.