Binding Edges

[Char]

Hi guys,

I've been teaching myself to make handbags, and I'm slowly getting the hang of it. It's all trial-and-error, and learning off the internet.

One thing I'd like to do is bind the edges of my bags with leather. I bought a binder attachment for my machine, but I had no luck with that. It wouldn't feed consistently, and I had a lot of trouble getting the binding to stay right along the edge of the bag.

I also tried glueing the binding along the edge before sewing, which was slightly more successful, but not the professional look I was hoping for.

Which is the best method? I'd appreciate any tips, so I can stop ruining leather trying..

Do you use any particular type or weight of leather? Most of what I was trying was probably 3oz.. I was wondering if it's a bit thick and too soft? I've looked at other people's bags and they seem to manage it with similar leather. And maybe it works best on thin edges? I was trying it on 2 layers of 3oz.

I am able to skive pieces down if necessary, and was wondering if thinner but a bit firmer would be best.. my most successful attempt was a bit firmer. hmm... :/

Here's a bag I made, and I really want to make something similar with binding along the flap, and possibly on the side seams. Is that too much of a curve, or is it possible? (it's a pretty tiny bag- like 7" wide)

Thank you!

[DoubleC]

Hey Char, I think if you read this tutorial KK did on making a wallet, it shows how to bind the edges in the pics. http://leatherworker.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=9940

I hope this helps, Cheryl

[Char]

Hi Cheryl,

Thanks! The photos definitely help..

It had never occurred that I should try trimming the excess after sewing.. Also lamb leather would probably be much more manageable.

Thanks for the help! (I didn't even realize there was a "How Do I Do That" section- I'm definitely going to learn some things there)