Tramps Leatherworking

I have been using tattoo flash drawings for quite sometime, there are thousands on the internet...

I like it, I'm partial to skulls and Flying V guitars...

For light work/repair --- set up with the proper needle thread combination, it would be fine. These machines are beautiful works of art and function and should be used when possible, I have two old Singer treadles 90+ years old, one of which I use daily.

#138 thread is pretty damn strong --- I think most people prefer larger thread for aesthetics...

I just purchased several of Barry Kings tools, they are excellent quality... Just give them a call, they will get you fixed up with what you need...

I agree, nothing wrong with it --- sometimes I prefer it for aesthetic reasons --- like Mike said, just be sure to end your half-stitch on the back...

Andy, Anytime, just ease up a little when you are pulling your threads tight, too much and they will cut right through... Good luck. 25b, C.S. Osborne description- Stitching Chisel - No. 700 "This punch is designed for saddle stitching. Forged in one piece. Prongs 3/32" apart." Like I said, It requires the use of a Diamond awl to open the holes properly, just like a pricking Iron...

I have used the Osborne 700 stitching chisel --- followed by a diamond awl --- for quite some time, and I have never had this issue... My guess is you are pulling the threads way too tight when you "snug" the stitches. I have used this stitching chisel and diamond awl to saddle stitch up to and including #415 beeswaxed nyltex thread.

To all of you who celebrate it --- Happy Thanksgiving!

You may be on to something --- actually, I can see those selling quite well...

There are some great instructional videos on youtube, and like anything else, it takes practice... You will not regret buying a machine.

The carving and dye job are very nice... Good Job!

I've never made a saddle for a "real" horse --- just iron Horses (Motorcycles), but that looks like a damn fine job...

I learned after looking at the amazing craftsmanship by Hidepounder on his leather rope bag --- I should take up bowling...

Welcome to the site from a fellow Hoosier! You have found the right place to learn, there are some very impressive leather crafters/artisans that hang out here, so jump in and hang on...

As i stated in an earlier post, we all have our opinions and experiences with these machines, but the fact that I have two machines that are 90+ years old --- that have not been rebuilt --- and are still sewing like a champ, is quite impressive and a testament to the quality and craftsmanship that went into building these old machines... I have done nothing mechanical to these machines but keep them oiled...

it appears the outer end of your bobbin hold down clip might be sitting too low causing a gap that is catching your thread.. I have a Consew 227R-2 that I just looked at and the outer end of the bobbin hold down clip is sitting just above the edge of the bobbin case... If you look closely at northmounts pic in post #3, you can compare it to yours... Mine looks just like his, the hold down clip is sitting just above the edge of the bobbin holder. The tread should NOT be able to catch on that corner like in your pic... Does that make sense?

Chrome tanned Latigo is a softer more pliable leather. This leather is produced in either dry or oil tan finish and is ideal for saddle bags, and general horse gear with the exception of any strap goods as chrome tanned leather is subject to more stretch. I have not used this for dog collars, but I think it would serve your purpose. You should give them (Zack White) a call and inform them of what you intend to use this for, I'm sure they can help you make the right choice.

Ask and you shall receive... http://www.zackwhite.com/Latigo-Sides_c_279.html

There is lots of great information and people here --- welcome to the forum...

We all have different opinions and experiences with these machines --- I have two Singer treadles that are over 90 years old and I use them daily for leatherworking. They are easy to maintain and setup and both sew like they were new. I also have new machines that are much more finicky... It would be very interesting to see how many of today's machines are still in use and sewing perfectly 90+ years from now...

Hi, welcome to the forum... I could go into detail how to clean up your stitching lines, but watching this video might be more helpful. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zTOqJCWbfY Happy Leathering!

I don't make mistakes --- I just learn new ways not to do something...

I agree with Bill, marketing and name recognition is the key... Steve Jobs' real genius was in marketing --- convincing people they needed a new phone every year was Genius, and it made him very wealthy.

Jazzman, Although, I am an huge advocate for using the proper tool for the job at hand --- I also allow a particular tools limitations to influence when and if I need to purchase something different... Use the Mallet and you will learn its limitations, and then you can decide if you need a more specialized tool...