Inspired by Roy at Christ Centered Ironworks on Youtube, I decided to make my own large rawhide mallet to achieve better finish results on some of my steel work. At first, I thought I’d simply buy one. I was somewhat dismayed though, after searching online for large rawhide mallets and discovered there were few to choose from, and prices started at over $60.00 (U.S.) plus shipping.
I searched the internet for rawhide materials, and discovered they were certainly available, but at prices and quantities that were more than I wanted or needed. An idea occurred to me that I could possibly use one of those large rawhide “bones” for big dogs, found in pet stores. I figured there would be just enough material to make the mallet I wanted. All I had to do was soak it in water until it softened up and became pliable. The “bone” could then be untied and I could reform it into the shape of a mallet head.
This video shows you what I did and how I did it. This is a project that is easy to take on and does not require any specialized tools or equipment. You will see me using a wood lathe to make a handle, but you can buy handles at reasonable prices almost anywhere. You can even use a 1” or 1-1/4” diameter wood dowel for a handle if necessary. A little wood glue, and a couple of screws are the only other materials required to complete the project.
You may have noticed my branding iron if you’ve already watched the video. If you’re interested in making a similar type for yourself, here is the link to my video on how I made mine: https://youtu.be/r0n4xu5NNLc
If you’d like to hear what Roy at Christ Centered Ironworks has to say about his rawhide mallet, here is a link to one of his videos on the subject: https://youtu.be/FIHbKL8aMno
Here’s the video on how to make your own large rawhide mallet:
do you find that the centre piece of the mallet moves since you’ve essentially cut it in half by drilling through for the handle? or does the fit of the layers against each other hold it in place?
Thanks for your comment, des bromilow!
The center core is held in position fairly tight by the surrounding wrapped layers, however the whole thing does get very stiff, once dry. In addition, I slathered a ridiculous quantity of wood glue in the hole which soaked into and permeated many layers prior to inserting the handle.
I think the combination of all these things have contributed to the mallet head behaving as if it was made from one, long, strip of rawhide. I suppose it is possible the center core might get knocked loose at some point, however my use of the mallet does not require any heavy blows so perhaps it may last indefinitely.