bluehorse

The first thing I realized while leather "shopping" this day is...There are a load of choices for different leathers out there... This is what I am needing some answers for: What "weight" (7/8oz, 9/10oz, 11/12oz) leather should I use to make breast collars, headstalls, and halters? Also, lining leather? Which is the best choice? I know latigo leather is supposed to be good for resisting sweat...and it can be found in 9/10oz. Thanks in advance!

Thank you, Katsass!! Your grandson did a very nice job! Thanks for sharing the pic! I am definitely looking into the hand stitching for now...I don't have any reason to have a machine at this point. The saddle stitch is the one that I have been studying the most since it has been recommended the most. And like TwinOaks said, if one thread breaks, there is always the second thread. It looks like a much neater stitch as well and will work great for breast collars and headstalls.

Wow! Thank you for such FAST and INFORMATIVE responses!!! I am looking at the Stohlman books now! And also doing research on the Awls...for hand stitching. I can make most anything out of fabric, and hand-sew and machine-sew fabric, I just want to start working with leather....mainly because there isn't anyone around where I live that does it and because I have encountered much frustration with finding someone who will make custom items. I do GREATLY appreciate everything!! TwinOaks and Rickybobby, THANK YOU!!

Hi everyone! I am new to the forum and most certainly new to the leatherworking world! I am debating on sewing machines... Here are my intentions: I want to be able to sew horse tack such as breast collars, headstalls, and halters. Eventually, I would like to start builing a saddle or 2. I have been looking at different machines and I am just curious to get input from anyone about their thoughts, opinions, and experiences with certain machines. I am looking into the Tippman Boss Leather Sewing Machine as first choice...or would it be just as cost effective and easy to truly hand stitch with an awl? I have also been looking at the Tech-Sew...for a motorized option. Opinions, thoughts, and experiences DEFINITELY appreciated!! Thanks in advance!