Good quality leather is well worth time and effort to work into useful items.

There are bits of the satchel I was given when I was eleven years old - 1962, still around and in good condition after decades of use. Belts and bags from the 1960s and 70s - my hippy era, waistcoats, even some skirts which would just about make a hand bag these days. I am slowly working my way through the stash to do repairs or make small items as required.

Many of the belts are now shaped like a scimitar after being worn in all weathers, but kilt straps and buckles, having probably been swapped over quite a few times remain straight.
I sew the straps through the same holes using black silk which is retained for reuse when removed so the kilt can be washed.

I have always had a vague intention of getting the proper leather working instruments, the comb for cutting slots for the stitching, the flat needles, the edge compressor - but having managed without them for so long I doubt I'd get the use out of them to make it worth the expense.

A single sharp point to use as an awl and darning needles work well enough for small projects

Anne the Pleater