stretching leathers

[AmericaSinnFein]

I've been stringing mesh pockets for quite awhile and want to try my luck at traditional pockets. Im curious what are the best methods for stretching leathers and what are some tips are to help me string a traditional
-thanks

[rubeo990]

Before stringing the pocket, soak them in hot water for a good 15 minutes or half hour.

Then stretch them as hard as you can until your hands hurt, then string the pocket while they're still a bit damp.

In my experience, it always works best to string the pocket using the ball and knife trick, I've never been able to turn out a good pocket otherwise.

After stringing the pocket, pound it for a good half hour, then ball and knife it overnight. Play wall ball for a while the next day to see how it throws, and put the shooters in. Ball and knife it every day and night for at least 3 days, and it'll be broken in really nicely.