Leather work cutting boards are a must-have for any leather worker. It is another important working surface for your tools and projects.
But what is a leather work cutting board? What kind of leather work cutting board should you get? What are the different types of leather work cutting boards? And what are some of the things you look out for when purchasing one?
All this and more will be answered in this article. So sit back, relax, and let’s get started.
What Is A Leather Cutting Board?
A leather work cutting board is a piece of nylon surface on which you can punch holes into your leather as well as cutting, stamping, tooling, and other activities which require a hard, flat surface.
The main purpose of a leather cutting board is to absorb all of the direct impacts from your tools so that it does not damage your work surface or anything else around it.
It also absorbs all of the noise that comes with stamping or tooling a piece of leather.
The best part about the leather cutting board is that it also protects your punching, stamping, and cutting tools from damage as well.
What Are The Uses Of A Leather Cutting Board?
There are many uses for a leather work cutting board. Here are a few of the most common uses:
1. Serves As A Surface On Which Holes Are Punched On Leather
I know it is very ironic that the main function of a leather cutting board is actually to punch holes into leather instead of making cuts.
But that is one of the main reasons why it exists – to protect your work surface from being damaged by your punching tools.
Punching holes into leather can be a very delicate process. If you do not have a leather cutting board, then you run the risk of damaging your leather work surfaces or cutting mats.
A leather cutting board will help to extend the life of your tools and surfaces.
2. Used As A Cutting Board
Obviously, a leather cutting board can be used for cutting. But I always recommend doing all of your cuts on a leather cutting mat due to their self-healing properties.
A leather cutting board should only be used if you do not have a cutting mat readily available.
But if you do use it as a cutting board, just be sure to use a sharp knife and make sure that your cuts are clean and straight.
3. It Is A Great Stamping And Tooling Board
Another great use for a leather cutting board is as a stamping board and tooling board. If you do not have a separate stamping or tooling board, then a leather cutting board will work just fine.
Just be sure to use a soft mallet so that you do not damage the surface of your leather cutting board and tools.
What Are The Different Types Of Leather Cutting Boards?
Now that we know what a leather cutting board is and some of its uses for it, let’s take a look at the different types of leather cutting boards.
There are 4 main types of leather cutting boards:
- Novolene Chopping Block
- Hydroma Cutting Board
- Poly Cutting Board
- Poundo Board
Novolene Chopping Block
The Novolene chopping block is a great all-purpose cutting board. It is made of high-density polyethylene, which makes it very durable.
It is also soft enough not to damage your tools or surfaces, but it is hard enough to provide years of use. It is often red in color.
The best part about the Novolene chopping block is that it can be planed down to a smooth surface for maximum usage.
Hydroma Cutting Board
The Hydroma cutting board is a great choice for those who do a lot of stamping and tooling. It is made of high-density polyethylene, which makes it durable and soft enough not to damage your tools.
The Hydroma cutting board is also self-healing, so it will not show any wear from your stamps or tools. It is often white or blue in color.
Poly Cutting Board
The Poly cutting board is a great choice for those who do a lot of cutting. It is made of high-density polyethylene, which makes it durable and hard enough to withstand years of use.
It is also self-healing, so it will not show any wear from your cuts. It is often white in color.
Poundo Board
is one of the most popular leather work cutting boards on the market. It is made of high-quality materials and is very durable. It is also easy to use and comes with a variety of features.
Poundo Board has a large cutting surface that is perfect for leather work. It also has a built-in ruler and a guide that makes it easy to cut straight lines. The board also has a handle that makes it easy to carry.
Poundo Board is a great choice for those who are looking for a high-quality, durable, and easy-to-use leather work cutting board. It is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced leather workers.
What Size Leather Cutting Board Should You Get?
Generally, the size of the leather cutting board you get should be small, but if you would want a bigger one, then that is also available in the market.
The small ones are usually about 12×12 inches, but you can find even smaller ones around 10×6 inches, while the big ones can be as large as 36×36 inches.
It really depends on what you need it for and how much space you have in your workspace.
Where Can You Purchase A Leather Cutting Board?
There are a lot of places where you can purchase a leather work cutting board.
The most common place to purchase one is at your local craft store. If you have Michaels or Jo-Ann Fabrics near you, they will definitely have them in stock.
Another great place to look is online. You can find a lot of great options on Amazon and eBay. Just be sure to read the reviews before you purchase anything.
You can also pick out a leather cutting board from any kitchen shop or big box stores like Walmart or Target.
So there are definitely a lot of options when it comes to finding a place to purchase your leather cutting board.
Things To Look For When Purchasing A Leather Cutting Board
When you are purchasing a leather cutting board, there are a few things that you should keep in mind.
The Size
The first thing is the size of the board. As I mentioned before, they come in all different sizes, so you need to make sure that you get one that is the right size for your needs.
The Type Of Board
The second thing is the type of board. There are different types of boards available, so you need to make sure that you get one that is right for your project. But generally, you can never go wrong with a nylon board.
Price
The third thing is the price. Leather cutting boards can range in price from $10 to over $50, depending on the type and size you pick out. So you need to make sure that you find one that is within your budget.
How Do You Care For A Leather Cutting Board?
Leather work cutting boards are actually very easy to care for.
- All you need to do is wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use and then dry it off with a clean towel.
- You should also store your board in a cool, dry place when you are not using it.
- You should never put your board in the dishwasher or submerge it in water.
- Clean up glue, dye, and other stains as soon as possible.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your leather work cutting board will last for many years.
Final Thoughts
Leather work cutting boards are an essential tool for any leatherworker. They are durable, easy to use, and come in a variety of sizes and styles.
When you are purchasing a board, be sure to keep in mind the size, type, price, and how you will care for it. By doing this, you can be sure to find the perfect board for your needs.
Thanks for reading!
FAQs
Q: Do I need a cutting board for my leather work?
A: While you can technically cut leather without a board, it is not recommended. Cutting boards help to protect your table or countertop from cuts and scratches, and they also make it easier to get a clean, straight cut.
Q: What is the best type of cutting board for leather work?
A: The best type of cutting board for leather work is a nylon board. Nylon is a durable material that can withstand the sharpness of your knives and will not dull them over time.