DIY axe mask advice sought

[Mang]

Brancho has been kind enough to send me some leather and basic tools to make an attempt at a mask for my axe. I've made several cardboard masks, each different from the last….

This is the design I’m thinking of using (I’ve superimposed a stopper). I'm looking at sewing a curved strip between the stitches to prevent the edge damaging them. I was thinking of putting the stitches about 2-3 mm from the edge.

I was wondering about lowering the angle of the main part of the mask because…

…it’s pinched round the back. If I lower it too much will the mask be a sloppy fit?

Any suggestions greatly received.

 

[brancho]

Austin
I think the strap round the back is a bit wide

 

[Mang]

Agreed, I guess it's only as good as the stopper is wide so it doesn't matter how thick it is.

 

[MartiniDave]

You might want to reinforce the stitching along the stopper with 2 or 3 rivets, just to be on the safe side.

Dave

 

[brancho]

Austin
try looking at THIS video

 

[Mang]

Thanks Alf but it's spooky-I looked at that very same video yesterday before seeing your post. That's the style I'll try. I also started colouring the leather too.