mellykelly

Thanks for that. I have just found lefflers:-)). Didn't know about them. I think my stitching issues are tools mostly and technique somewhat. Technically I can do it and have watched numerous you tube videos but I really need a decent pricking thingo to get the holes uniform especially with two layers of leather. Very frustrating!

Hi Barra Thanks for your reply. I am using veg tan leather and I am doubling it over like you said. I have also found adelaide leather supplies (where I have spent a fortune). I also go to DS Horne for leather. I have improved a lot in technique but my hand stitching is crap so I am now using a 90+ yo singer treadle which is doing the job (sorta) that I picked up at an auction. I'm quite addicted to leatherwork now and would love to learn the tricks of the trade from a professional but can't find anyone here. No one teaches it anymore I have found. I am also having difficulty finding quality tools. The Tandy stuff is okay to learn with but quite inferior I have found. Any suggestions there? Thanks so much for your response. Good to hear from someone in adelaide :-) Melanie

Thanks for that - I didn't think of the spoon. I reduced the pressure on the foot and the marks are slightly less but still there. Is it better to dye the leather before sewomg together or put together then dye. Sorry for the dumb questions but I have only been doing this for a couple of weeks.

Thanks for that. Does anyone know where to get antique presser feet for singers? I'm not game to grind down the only one I have.

Hi all I'm hoping someone can help me. Given my disastrous attempts at hand sewing and the volume of horse bridles and brown bands I am making I have acquired an old Singer Cobbler treadle machine (circa 1922) which is working well except for one thing - the walking foot makes horrible grooves in my leather. Does anyone have any suggestions for remedying this problem?

Thanks all for your feedback. Now another question. Is it better to glue pieces together before sewing (halters etc). I am having all sorts of trouble keeping it all together and lined up!!

I'm very new at leatherwork and out of necessity need to make my own miniature pony halters as they are too difficult to find. This might be a stupid question but can someone please tell me how I am supposed to treat the underside of the leather to take that suadey feel out of it. Also would hand stitching be okay or do I need a machine? If so what sort ie walking foot v any other? Sorry to appear dumb but there are very few resources re this in australia.

I am making horse halters (new to leatherwork). Is hand stitching adequate or should I use a machine? If so does anyone have any suggestions as to what type ie walking foot v other.

Thanks that's pretty much what I meant. It's just fluffy on the underside and while it doesn't have to be perfect like the top it needs to be smoother. I have bought a cow hide (not cheap) to use. Should I do the whole thing before I cut it or just as I make it up. Sorry to sound dense but there is very limited instruction in australia and I'm starting this from scratch.

I'm very new at leatherwork and out of necessity need to make my own miniature pony halters as they are too difficult to find. This might be a stupid question but can someone please tell me how I am supposed to treat the underside of the leather to take that suadey feel out of it.