RE: I am considering making custom Uilleann pipe bags.

[patsky]

Hello all,

After years of using the L&M company for my leather bags I am now making my own bags for much less cost.

Since the US dollar has weakened a Canadian dollar is now worth more that the US for the first time ever. My cost of pipes bags has jumped 50%. Not counting shipping and customs.

I have made some good contacts with leather workers here in the South and have designed a bag where the stitching is sealed and not visible...and, best of all, completely air tight. No rivets and no big hog stitching that leak. Send me a template and I can make your bag. Or I can send you my "Rowsome style" bag that I have been using for years.

My question is, would it be worth my while to do this? I value your opinion.

All the best,
Pat Sky

[djm]

Just curious - will your bag leather require some form of seasoning to keep it air-tight, or have you discovered a new source of E.L.K. treated leather?

djm

[Jim Burke]

Back when I could buy good quality "elk tanned cowhide" specifically made for bagpipes It would cost about $40 for each bag(just for the hide) and take me about 3 hours to glue and stitch the seam. So, if you can get the leather and it doesn't take long to assemble then it probably would be worthwhile. I'm using L&M bags for my sets now but dread having to order more.

Jim

[patsky]

The bags will be made of so called "elk hide" chrome tanned leather with the pores sealed. The color will be black or brown depending on the supply.
They will be machine stitched and the stitching will be sealed. The wait time should be no longer than 2 weeks. The price will be in the neighborhood of +/- $125.00. All of this is subject to change but this is a ballpark estimate.

Pipe makers will be given a discount with quantity purchases.

I can also give quotes for custom cut bellows leather and belts.


All the best,
Pat Sky

[Dionys]

Sounds reasonable if the shipping doesn't raise the price too much. I'd bite.

[reedbiter]

I'm still able to get bags from L&M for about $100...

[illwinds]

Pat, sounds like a good idea. L & M have had some supply problems lately. Black would be a nice option also. Many of us prefer to not use a bag cover, and esthetically, black would make a nicer match to some sets. Your estimated price is in line with what the RETAIL price of an L & M works out to be, with shipping and some handling charges added for the dealers' time. ( L & M only sell through dealers).