15/10/12

Penknife maintenance

A few days ago I found a small penknife that was scuffed, but still usable.

Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1605Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1606

The metal parts were a bit rusty and the wood handle was scratched. So I took the knife apart and cleaned and oiled the metal parts, I sanded the handle parts and spray painted them black with a nice coat of clear finish. The result is a nice pocket knife with a 7cm blade, ideal for sharpening a pencil or cutting an apple.

Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1607Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1609

4/10/12

Converting clip on suspenders to buttoned ones

As commented before I was invited to a party with a bit of dancing going on. The idea was to have a fancy dress party in the style of the 20s or 30s. One accessory for men are suspenders. Having only a few days left I couldn’t get the buttoned style, so I decided to convert a clip on one. Here is a pair of suspenders I bought at the dollar store for 3 Euro.

Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1457

I went on to replace the clips. First I took the clips off and pried the metal ring out.

Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1460

I cut out three pieces of scrap leather.

Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1461

Put the leather piece through the ring and sew the ends together right side facing in.

Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1468

Turn the leather around and sew the ring in place.

Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1469Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1470

From an old belt I cut out three long strips with round heads. For the buttons I made cuts in the heads and punched a hole on the end of the cuts to prevent them from ripping.

Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1462

I folded the pieces lengthwise and sew them.

Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1465

Here is the comparison between before and after.

Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1471Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1473

And this is what they look like when worn:

Figaflors_i_Braves_IMG_1496

I heard bow ties are cool now…