Jump to content
Roger J

Saddle Stitch: Can Dark Dye Contaminate White Thread?

Recommended Posts

Let's say one the made the holes for a saddle stitch, then dyed the leather a dark color, waited a full 24 hours and then proceeded to stitch with white thread...how likely is it that the thread would pick up stain and become "unclean" over a 6" run?

Dying the holes prior to stitching would be an attempt at preventing undyed leather from being apparent.

materials:

-3 layers of 8oz veg glued together (9 mm total)

-white braided polyester thread, waxed with beeswax

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Why don't you make up a sample and find out? It's great practice, costs virtually nothing and will result in an answer that applies to your specific materials and techniques.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I normally dye, condition and finish leather prior to stitching. I have not had a problem with dye bleeding into the thread, but, like Matt, would suggest that you try it first.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Normally I would have tested it out myself but am running low on leather and a bit pressed for time.

Would I be correct in assuming the dye+finish leather prior to making holes is generally the preferred method?

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Yes, the dye will turn the thread. Dye first, finish stitching.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

If you dye and finish the work piece and then put in the stitch groove and do the stitching, there should be no color bleeding. If you put in the stitch groove first and then dye and stitch, the thread will discolor.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Almost all black has rub off. Use a piece of white thread a couple feet long floss each hole befor you stitch it is a little extra work but it should remove any rub off that would contaminate your thread. Just rub the thread back in fourth in each hole until you no longer see any discoloration. should only take a couple of strokes.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I follow Camano Ridge's idea, . . . but with a twist.

I hate, detest, dislike, abhor, and in general don't want to do ANY hand stitching at all. Hands are for hamburgers, . . . machines are for stitching.

BUT, . . . when I have to, . . . I pull off at least 4 feet too much thread just for this purpose, . . . if the thread is to be white. That way, . . . the first 24 inches of the thread on each needle, . . . picks up the wayward dye, oil, sweat, or whatever other contaminant there is to make my stitches "un-white".

May God bless,

Dwight

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.


×
×
  • Create New...