nikpalmer

I’m binding an edge on a practice bag. The leather is 1.1mm and the edge of the bag has three layers so around 3mm. I then cut a 20mm wide binding strip. I glue the bag edge up and then glue the binding strip in place around the bag edge. Then I sew (techsew 4800) the binding all around the bag edge circumference. All works but I can’t keep the stitching on the binding to be consistent distance from the edge of the binding. I’ve included a Coach bag image with a very similar shape and edge binding. Their stitch offset is almost perfect throughout the circumference of the bag, even over the places where the binding for the top edge of the bag joins into the outer edge binding. So I am wondering whether I am approaching it incorrectly from a machine point of view. I’ve included the foot setup image (I’m using an adjustable roller guide but it’s folded away in the image), and a couple of images of where the binding worked well and was even. I can either see from the inside edge of the binding/bag or the outside. What tends to happen is the back of the stitch is moving laterally even if the front of the stitch is parallel to the edge of the binding. To me this feels like the whole edge and binding is “rolling” possibly where there are inconsistencies in the material thickness? I searched around and can’t find much on this style of binding on a machine. Should I use a different foot setup? More foot pressure? This may be more appropriate for “how do I do that” but I’m thinking it could be machine specific so posted here. thanks for any advice!

thanks, I had read that but there is no clear image of how much slack thread is around. It's no big deal as the machine is running fine, just something I haven't been able to find definitive info on. thanks nik

Does anyone have a clear video of the thread around the check spring area during a full stitch cycle. That’s on a 4800 techsew or Juki version. My machine is sewing well but from when the needle starts to penetrate the leather to when the needle leaves the leather the thread is slack between the check spring and the take up lever. I dont think that’s how that should be, but I’m not sure and can’t find a clear video. thanks for help nik

Many thanks for the pointers....;o)

Hi folks, we are constantly looking for better and better quality of bridle leather for our goods. But i still sit at my desk and take out the Sedgwicks samples and then desperately search the net for a supplier. I guess it's the waxy feel and smell that makes we really want to order this leather. I have contacted Sedgwicks but their single order/single color minimum is too large for us to afford. I know that Seigel seems to be gone. Does anyone know of any supplier that already has or is willing to import Sedgwicks. We are based in Canada but Washington State shipping is fine for us. We are looking for around 10-15 sides or backs. Any info would be appreciated. take care. nik

Hi, we don't use grommets a lot however the nickel plate (steel?) grommets i have tend to split. They are around 3/8" internal, 1" external dia. I use the correct anvil and setter and have used a variety of sized holes. However the male tends to split were the setter peens it over. Normally in two places on the internal circumference. Functionally they are perfect but aesthetically they look poor. It could be cheap grommets or setter. I have also tried one large hit, and many small taps and all in between. Normally the grommet is set in 1 or 2 thicknesses of 8-10oz. Any advice appreciated.

Hi all, does anyone know where one can purchase a solid brass Gladstone (modern type not the old proper Gladstone) enclosure. I am stumped to come up with someone? kindest nik

Hi folks, my first post here so please excuse any newbie-ness on my part. I am using a 10-12oz Waterhouse Leather Burgundy VegTan Oil Finish Bridle leather for bags etc. It is a beautiful leather that i love working, the color is great, and the finish is exactly what i want. However on areas of the bag that rub against clothing it does tend to bleed color onto said clothing. I have tried using Resolene but it still bleeds somewhat and i also don't like the "gloss" finish it imparts. I have also tried Bag Kote with some success. Is there some sort of color fix that you guys can recommend. PS..great forum i have enjoyed finding. kindest nik