First a strap is cut from the hide. I use 'half butts' which are rectangular pieces of hide, cut along the spine, omitting the poor areas such as the belly and shoulder.
When we have a strap of the appropriate width, it is cut to the correct length using a 'double head knife'. This is a traditional saddlers tool which takes skill both to use and also to sharpen.
The collar takes shape using the double head knife again and precise measurements.
Then the peice is bevelled to remove sharp edges with an edge shave. This has to be used carefully and its another tool that takes skill to use and also to keep sharpened and safe.
*To Be Continued*