kenny

Anyone? I just need to know if this is just a problem with the operator (me) or if there is a problem with the machine that is causing this. If so i'll get a professional to look at it!

Kevin - I think there is enough pressure on the presser foot so i've kind of eliminated that one for now Ferg - Although im using tape from time to time i tried what you suggested and eliminated the tape and used a new needle but still no difference. Art - If anything most of my stitching is very slow so its definitely not over heating. Ok what i've done is attached some pics of 2 stitches where ive simulated the problem area by stitching over an additional 2 layers half way down the seam as indicated by the green lines. The first pic clearly shows the underside thread showing through after the foot passes over the high point of the layers while the second stitch shows the result of loosening the top thread, although not bad on the top the second pic of the underside shows what happened to the bottom stitch. One thing i have noticed is that the problem only happens when the foot is coming down off the higher layers of leather so what i mean is that the back of the foot is still elevated on the 4 layers of leather but the needle is actually stitching 2 layers - that is when the bottom thread shows through. Should i be using a different machine or foot for this type of top stitching work? Thanks for your previous replies, i really hope i can get this thing fixed!! Kenny

Hi All, Just wanting to get some opinions from those more experienced than myself. Im sewing soft 3oz leather motorcycle jackets with a Mitsubishi walking foot machine. The issue im having is that i'll set my thread tension to sew a 2 layer seam but as soon as i hit another seam join where it may go from 2 layers to 3 or 4 layers then back to 2, im getting a change in tensions and the bobbin thread comes up through and is visible from the top. It looks terrible and i cant seem to find a way to fix this issue except by altering the tension when i reach these points then re tensioning after they have passed which is really just pot luck. Is this normal or should i be able to vary through multiple layers and achieve a nice even stitch the whole time without touching the machine in the process? I hope this makes sense and i'd love to hear any suggestions you may have! Thanks in advance Kenny

Excellent just what i was after Art, thanks! I was sort of doing that but on top as opposed to pulling through to the bottom, im only learning so it's quite new for me at the moment. Thanks again!

Hi all, Im in the process of sewing some applique lettering on a set of leathers and just want to get some tips as to how to finish (tie off) the thread on each letter? The samples i've done so far look as though they will come undone pretty easy so i just want to know how the experts do it! Any suggestions? Im using a walking foot machine. Thanks

Thanks a lot Bree that's a great help especially for a novice like me! Yep i think the 69 will be good especially for sewing lettering and those fiddly little bits. I may try nylon but im only just starting so im trying to keep it simple

Interesting discussion, i was thinking of using kevlar thread but i've decided not to worry about it after reading this. Nylon seems to be hard to get in different colors so i was going to go with polyester. What would you all recommended nylon or poly? Also what is a good size thread to use for bike leathers/jackets etc? I had some 20 but it seemed a bit big, i noticed Bree mentioned #69 is that the size you're referring to there Bree?

Cool thanks guys!

Hey all, Im looking at making myself a cutting table but im a bit unsure what i should be using on the top to prevent blunting my knives. Any suggestions? Should i just get some standard rubber matting or is there something special i need to use? Thanks!

Well i've worked out a way to make a frame that i think will work, if anyone's interested in seeing it i can post some pics when it's done. Ian, yes i'm going to put in a mesh liner. I've never made a full suit before so i'm just trying to figure out what the process is to put it together and any tricks or tips i should know about before i start! Vanson are great and they have a very good video tour of their factory too.

Wow thanks for the quick replies! Yeah I think you're right Ian, i need some kind of frame to clamp the elastic and stretch it out while i sew the leather to it. Maybe i'll have to make a frame myself Does anyone have any experience with sewing leather racing suits by any chance?

Hi all, loving the forum but i just have a question for those more experienced. I'm trying to find out how leather accordion stretch panels on motorcycle jackets and suits are made. Im guessing that the elastic that the leather is stitched to is stretched all the way out and held there while the leather is sewn onto it and then released. But how would i hold the elastic stretched out? I'd need some kind of clamp wouldn't I? Anyway i'd appreciate your feedback and suggestions!