Sixer Report post Posted July 27, 2011 I have a custom holster order that is going to require Orange stitching... the one color I don't have... go figure Anyhow, I'd like to just buy some white, unwaxed thread, dye it orange, and wax it. I've never done this before so I have a few questions... - what type of thread should I look for (nylon, linen, cotton, etc.)? - what size of thread would be best for hand-stitiching holsters? - how exactly do I wax the thread? I have orange dye and bee's wax... I know that I will want to dye the thread first. How would I melt and apply the wax for the best results? Thanks! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dbusarow Report post Posted July 27, 2011 Use linen thread. You won't be sorry. 5 or 7 cord will probably be what you want. To wax, first thread the needles, then run one needle and thread through something like an eye screw or a small cup hook. Hold both needles in one hand and pull the thread tight, run your beeswax up and down the thread a few times. Done Dan Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
King's X Report post Posted July 27, 2011 I agree with Dan. I usually wax my thread before putting it through the needle eye. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Ladykahu Report post Posted July 27, 2011 Will normal leather dye work on linen? or will he need to use a fabric dye to make it permanent? I am used to dying fabric, and you normally need to use heat to set the dye... Natalie Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Sixer Report post Posted July 27, 2011 Will normal leather dye work on linen? or will he need to use a fabric dye to make it permanent? I am used to dying fabric, and you normally need to use heat to set the dye... Natalie Thanks for the help! Natalie, I was wondering the same thing.... I have some Angelus Orange leather dye. I know from experience that most dyes cause permanent stains on fabrics (i.e. my clothes) Soooo, with that in mind I'm assuming that the leather dye should do the trick. Otherwise I may have to pick up some Rit Dye... I guess there's one way to find out for sure! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Ladykahu Report post Posted July 27, 2011 I know the spirit based green dye I tried on a belt I made myself is fading already after 4 and a bit months. I wear it daily as my work keys hang off it. But all I covered the thread with was beeswax / paraffin mix, no clearlac or any other finisher. Natalie Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kevin Report post Posted July 28, 2011 I just use whatever I have on hand. I use leather dye for brown and Rit for red and yellow. I stick a dauber in the dye and put a weight on the end of the thread and draw the thread over the dauber, let it dry, wax it and go on with it. Kevin Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites