Every well made holster starts with a properly designed pattern. In this video I will show you step by step, how to make a pattern designed to fit your own handgun. We will cover grip clearance, a forward FBI cant, belt placement, stitch line measurements, adjustments for larger or aftermarket front sights, and overall shape. Learn the easy way to make a holster pattern by watching this tutorial.
14 minutes // Beginner
Tutorial Skills
- Belt placement
- Shape considerations
- Forward FBI cant
- Grip clearance
- Stitch line measurements
- Sight groove adjustment
- Reinforcement panel
- + more
Tools + Materials Needed
- Posterboard paper or manila folders
- 1/2″ wide x 12″ long strip of leather you plan to use for the holster (7-8 oz vegetable tanned is preferred)
- Pencil and eraser
- Pricking Awl
- 5/16″ Leather Punch
- Protractor
- Ruler
- U.S. Quarter or other similar small round item
- Utility knife
- Scissors
- Rotary cutter
I sell various tools and supplies in my online shop here as well ➔
If I don’t have an item shown in the video listed here, I don’t have a link for it so you may have to search around to find a supplier.
Links directing to an amazon product are paid links.


Meet Your Instructor
Mr. Lentz
Over a decade ago in the dusty plains of central Colorado, I began the path of building this small leather goods business. As the years have passed, I have acquired very useful and practical leather working skills that I am more than happy to pass on to those who are looking to learn the trade. A lot of knowledge comes with running a successful leather goods business, and at the heart of it all - remains a deep understanding of how to work with leather, approach problems, and come up with simple and satisfying solutions. Let me pass on a bit that knowledge and advice to you and we can keep the beautiful artistry of leather craft alive.
JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER
Subscribe to receive occasional updates about new tutorials, tips and more.