I have been a big fan of Long Hollow Softies for years. Comfortable and simple. I used to stop by the shop in Franklin TN occasionally to browse, say hi, and shop for myself, others and for gifts. Unfortunately Phillip Thompson, who took over the business his dad started in the 70's, passed away last year on August 31. I don't know anything else about the status of his business other than it is no longer a business. Very unfortunate. Phillip was a very nice guy who took great care in his craftsmanship and prided himself on quality product. His shop was in a one story building just off a main road and was stacked with multiple varieties of leather. He had a few "display" type items hanging high out of reach on the wall and a small retail area in the front near the door with the straps. The rest of the building was his work area and storage area. His mother worked in there with him for years, answering the phone and taking the in store purchases.
Not trying to hijack, the softies are popular but no longer being made.
Last edited by chipotle; Jan-09-2023 at 12:36am.
Silverangel EconoA
Breedlove Quartz FF
JBovier Tradition
I recently bought a Lakota Leather flat woven mandolin strap for my new Eastman MD-514. Being a more or less typical American male in my late 50s, I carry a fair amount of bacon across my upper back. When the strap arrived is was not long enough to around my neck & right shoulder.
I e-mailed the shop, and they had me mail back the original strap. They made me a custom length strap and sent it right out, and it only cost a few dollars more. All in all it was a very good experience, and now my MD-514 proudly wears its Lakota Leather strap.
Eastman MD-514 (F body, Sitka & maple, oval hole)
Klos Carbon Fiber (on order)
And still saving my nickels & dimes & bottle caps & breakfast cereal box tops for my lifetime mandolin.
I have found Pinegrove straps very good and very helpful with any mods I want.
https://www.pinegroveleather.com/
My Recommendation would be one of Sully’s mandolin straps. I would send him an email and tell him that your looking for an F5 mandolin strap. Also, check out his CUSTOMER PHOTOS on his website to see the different mandolins straps that he has made. If you see a photo of a particular mandolin strap let him know and give him the length you need and he will make it for you. He is a great guy to work with and his turn around time is quick!!
Check out his website - https://sullysstraps.com/vintage-str...ndolin-straps/
Here is a pic of the strap he made for my Ellis F5 Special. I liked it so much that I had him make me a strap for my A5 mandolins.
2023 A. Lawrence Smart A5
2022 Girouard Griffith Tribute A5
2021 Ellis F5 Special
2021 Girouard Concert Master F Oval-hole
2020 Heiden Artist Plus A5
1992 Givens A6
1919 Martin Style C
A Poll to simply vote for your favorite, may be in order for these FAQ.
writing about music
is like dancing,
about architecture
Another vote for Little Satchel and Hines (though I am not sure the Hines straps are still available). Both are thin, supple, and strong, made from braided roo hide. They are the best mandolin straps I have ever used. You’ll need to cut or punch the strap button hole in the flat leather piece at the end of the strap, or have a leather worker do it for you.
Pinegrove are fantastic with an F style. I see mine as a strap for life - definitely recommend.
I highly recommend Harrison Straps in Woodlawn Va. (Near Galax). He customizes them to your size and personalizes them with your name on the strap if desired. Try it, you might like it! I'm betting you will love it!
https://www.facebook.com/harrison.straps.1/
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