Leather Key Ring Craft Project

Preparing the Leather

• You have many different options when it comes to the leather. You can either purchase leather key rings ready for crafting, or you can cut them out yourself. If you decide to do the latter, choose the right weight of leather for your project. A thicker leather is best for working with leather stamps while thinner leather works best for stitching. Choose the shape you want, whether a square, circle or teardrop, and leave a length at the top that will wrap around the actual key ring.

Stamping the Leather

• One of the most important steps when stamping leather is moistening it first. It does not have to be soaking wet; simply wipe the top of the leather with a damp rag before stamping. Have a sample of leather handy to show the kids how to do the stamping. They can choose their initials or a picture, depending on what types of stamps you have. Place all of the stamps you want to use on top of the leather; the number you use depends on the size of the stamps and the size of the leather. Work from the middle out. Hold the stamp firmly so that it does not move while hammering. Hammer with a rubber mallet and do not pound so hard that you go through the leather.

Stitching

• Stitching can be difficult, depending on the age of the one making the key ring and the weight of the leather. You can stitch lighter-weight leather without too much difficultly, but only through one layer. When stitching through multiple layers or thick leather, you must drill holes through it first. Pliers are good tools to have on hand to help you pull the needle through. Stitching can also take a lot more time than stamping.

Stain or Paint

• Stain or paint the leather as desired. If you want to paint inside the design of the stamp, use a very thin paintbrush. You can also do this with a darker stain. To add stain all over the entire key ring, use a rag dipped in the stain. Wear rubber gloves to keep it from getting on your hands. A little stain goes a long way. The stain dries fairly quickly; within a few minutes.

Finishing

• Attach the leather to the actual key ring. Use a leather punch to create holes through the leather. Loop the long part through the metal key ring and make holes in the two corresponding parts that match up. Use a brad and the rubber mallet to permanently attach the leather fob to the metal key ring.