First checkbook cover complete except for snap. Rough but functional. Next one will be better. No close ups allowed on this one.

Try this-

I like the insert wrenches, nice job for your first job

Nice,  but couldn't you have put something like a Litchfield cutout on the cover?  Just kidding.   Nicely done.

  Jim

Good work Jim

 First attempt is a tad narrow. Used plastic cover as template but have to cut about 1/8 inch off width of tab that holds checks in cover. Now I need to master double loop lacing and then make one correct width. Live and learn.

If lacing or sewing the leather is giving you a fit, try this...

Using a compass, layout a line back from the edge of the leather. Figure out how many holes for the lacing you need, and the spacing.

Cut the head off a small nail (size it what you are using for sewing or lacing...could be a small brad nail up to any size you want), sharpen the nail to a nice point. Chuck it up into your dress press. Use this setup to pierce the holes where you will be sewing or lacing it together. Use a scrap piece of wood under the leather so you don't dull the nail. The mechanical advantage of lowering the quill makes piercing the leather a snap! Once you pierce all the holes, the sewing goes a lot easier and quicker.

Or use one of these-