Money Clip & Card Case Kit: Assembly Tips for Clean Edges
By Tandy Leather — Tandy Leather, Inc. | Published: 2026-11-05
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to assemble the Money Clip & Card Case Kit with clean, burnished edges. Step-by-step tips for beginners, including common mistakes to avoid.
Quick answer
To get clean edges on your Money Clip & Card Case Kit, focus on three things: sanding the edges progressively, applying a burnishing agent sparingly, and burnishing with firm, even strokes. Skip any of these, and you'll get fuzzy or uneven edges.
Why edge work makes or breaks this kit
The Money Clip & Card Case Kit comes with pre-cut, pre-punched leather parts, so assembly is straightforward. But the edges are left raw, and that's where beginners often rush. Clean edges turn a homemade-looking project into something you'll be proud to carry. The good news: you don't need expensive tools—just sandpaper, a burnishing agent, and a slicker or canvas cloth.
The trade-off: speed vs. quality
You can assemble this kit in an hour, but clean edges require extra time for sanding and burnishing. If you're making all 10 cases in the pack, consider doing the edge work in batches to stay efficient. Also, the kit requires a standard rivet setter (not included), so plan ahead if you don't own one.
Step-by-step assembly for clean edges
- Sand the edges progressively: Start with 220-grit sandpaper, then move to 400 and 600 grit. Sand in one direction along the edge, not back and forth. Common mistake: skipping grits or pressing too hard, which creates dips. Check for a smooth, even surface before moving to burnishing.
- Apply burnishing agent sparingly: Dampen the edge slightly with water or apply a thin coat of burnishing agent like Tokonole. Use a cotton swab or your finger. Common mistake: over-applying, which makes the edge gummy and dark. Less is more—you can always add another coat.
- Burnish with firm, even strokes: Use a wood slicker or canvas cloth. Rub vigorously along the edge until it darkens and smooths. Common mistake: inconsistent pressure, which leaves patchy results. Burnish until the edge feels hard and looks glossy.
- Stitch the case before final burnishing: If your kit requires stitching, do it before the final burnish so you can smooth the thread area. Common mistake: stitching after burnishing can scuff the finished edge. Plan the order: sand, stitch, then burnish.
- Set the money clip hardware: Use a standard rivet setter to attach the money flip clip. Follow the kit instructions for placement. Common mistake: hitting too hard and denting the clip. Test the setter on scrap leather first.
- Finish with a protective coat: Apply a light coat of edge finish or wax to seal the burnished edge. Common mistake: skipping this step, which leaves the edge vulnerable to moisture. Let it dry fully before using the case.
Kit facts that affect your assembly
- Money Clip & Card Case Kit Pack of 10: Includes pre-cut and pre-punched leather parts, thread, hand stitching needle, money flip clip hardware, and instructions. You won't need to cut or punch holes, so you can focus on stitching and edge finishing.
Money Clip & Card Case Kit Pack of 10 - Money Clip & Card Case Kit Pack of 10: Kit Level 2 and dimensions 3.13 in. x 3.88 in. (7.94 x 9.84 cm). Level 2 means some leathercraft experience is helpful, and the compact size makes edge work manageable for beginners.
- Money Clip & Card Case Kit Pack of 10: Additional items required: standard rivet setter (not included). You'll need this tool to set the money clip hardware, so gather it before you start.
