For those of us who don't braid thought I'd start this thread up, plus I don't need the spambot sticky at the moment so got a spare slot

If you don't know how to turn your favourite pouch template into a pdf - PM me and i'll tell you how or do it for you - whichever's easiest for you

I chose pdf's for the simple reason it's a universal format and you can change the pouch size simply by changing printout size.

Okay I'll start with the 6 hole template I use most.
This should be printed out on A4 (letter if in the states or - probably - canada).
This will make a universal pouch capable of holding anything from a tennis ball on down to a handful of gravel.
Cut along the outer green lines and then cut out the green triangles.
Punch holes centrally in the end tabs and about 5mm in from the end.
Since almost no stress is placed on the end of the hole (if you follow my attachment method), you could punch the holes closer to the end of the tabs if you wished. But I generally go for around 5mm.

When attaching cords the middle tab is at the back and the two outer tabs go 2nd and third one end and the other way round at the other. this stops the pouch from listing to one side and holds it flat when hanging down.
To attach cords, form a loop in the end of the cord (double cord over and tie a simple overhand knot), push loop through from the back. feed the rest of the cord through the loop and then work the loop around the sides of the tabs. And pull tight.
This attachment is the strongest way to attach cord to leather. This is because there is no stress placed on the hole itself, the leather is held by 2 cords. Cannot tear and the loops hold the pouch centrally and prevent listing or twisting.
Once I've tied my loop knots I cut the spare end of the cord short and melt it back into the body of the knot itself. Just looks neater.

If you print it out on a5 - it'll be the ideal size for golfballs
I'm planning on laminating a couple of sheets of these to give me much more durable templates. But I usually print out on paper, cut round and use a pritt stick for temporary attachment to the leather.
With a more rigid laminated template I think I can just hold it to the leather and draw round with a pencil.
See next post for pics

Great idea!

Can I use the results of this thread for the Slinger's Guide?

Great pouch, and great thread- I'll be checking often and posting if I have any flashes of genius. I've only really played with shaped pouches a little, and had problems with rocks (jagged ones, mostly, cause that's all I had) hanging up so they throw to the left (I'm righty, sidearm, sort of). Is that an ammo-specific problem, or have others experienced that with their shaped pouches and nice, round ammo? My pouches are usually nearly flat, and work well with the lame rocks I have here, not so much with better ammo. I guess I have to make some ammo, anyway, so I can try that cool looking pouch 

Môn Slinger wrote on Aug 11^th, 2012 at 9:04am:


Yes. 

Very nice! I like the offset connectors.

Tom

you know that boat sling template would probably work at least as well without stitching. Just bring the holes over one another instead of facing, and attach with a loop. That would make an interesting pouch I reckon.
If you trim the corners of the hole tabs so they are at an angle and not square. The loop should get a great grip.

I'll have a play.

As far as stitching goes. You can make the holes with the smallest setting on  a standard hole punch.


You only need a few bits of kit to make leather pouched slings - the hole punch is probably the most important.

I have an antique one I picked up from an 'antiques' stall many years ago. It's tough enough that I can put serious squeeze on without bending the handles.
Which I did with the cheaper one I got recently from lidl, bend the handles, that is. It was included in an eyelet kit I bought. 
I probably don't need to squeeze as hard - but it's much easier using a tool that doesn't care how hard you squeeze. The one in the picture above - for example - looks like I could bend the handles one handed.  

If I were going to buy one I'd probably pay a few extra sheckels and get one of these:

I made a stitchless butterfly pouch today, and it seems to work very well. This leather is quite stiff compared to the other stuff I have been using. I think 'butterfly' suits better than 'boat', especially since it now has holes in it  

If the cuts are made perfectly (mine weren't) the two edges should butt against each other. I made the holes after crossing the lugs/ears over. It is quite tricky to get the curved cuts to meet neatly in the middle, and next time I will punch a small hole in the angle, as a 'stop'.









I think have seen a similar pattern on here, called an 'H' pouch - ring any bells?

Regarding punches, for making a run of straight holes I was thinking of getting one of these:



As I enjoy punching things! But wouldn't work well on a curved edge.