Early lathes, light-duty milling machines, sensitive drills, Singer and other makes of sewing machines and assorted power tools were often driven by a round leather belt, the method sometimes referred to in contemporary literature as a "gut" drive. The belting is still available and usually in stock for immediate delivery. The belts are joined by a simple, pre-formed wire clip, one of which is supplied with all orders. If extra clips are required, they can be ordered below.  However, the belts can also be glued, as in the following instructions for 3 mm belt. Although 5 mm and larger diameters are joined with the supplied clip, no clips are made for the 3 mm size. The solutions are:

- make your clip from a piece of wire

- stitch using a length of guitar string

- glue the belt using a scarfed joint.

To make a scarfed joint, either hold the leather against a strip of wood and use a flap wheel on a Dremel to grind it down, or clamp the leather in a vice at an angle so that the required length of the scarf is exposed then slice across with a Stanley knife. This process is remarkably easy - though it might be wise to practise first on a short, spare length. The glue to use is an impact type, such as EvoStick; apply a thin layer and allow to dry (10 minutes minimum). Apply a second thin layer and allow to dry. Now use a small vice to squeeze the two overlapping sections together. Don't over-tighten, just squeeze the ends together firmly and leave in the vice overnight. Although the belt will be distorted over the join - and you might want to clean it up with the Dremel and flap wheel or Stanley knife -  it will still drive perfectly and regain most of its round profile after a day or two running. Any problems or questions? Just phone 01298-871633