Tugadude

As far as wear and breakage, I guess it depends on the product and its use. An average person's belt probably is less of a risk as compared to horse tack. If it bothers you, don't do it. Simple as that. If the straps you are making will be subject to a lot of rubbing in that area, then it is definitely more prone to failure. I don't know what to call it, maybe a "side stitch" or "edge stitch" perhaps. I do use that stitch and have done so on belts with no negative effects. I also have used it on wallets and watch straps. Nigel Armitage is, in my opinion, an expert on leatherworking. He uses the "edge stitch" in this demonstration video.

Apparently many do...

Tandy’s website does not say anything about not using their stitching chisels to punch through leather, not that I could find. In fact, just the opposite. I have two sets of their Craftool Pro Diamond chisels and use them regularly. They look brand new. The black ones they sell will bend if you abuse them, striking them off-center for example. Even still, they last for years.

Roughening surfaces before gluing is always a good idea. That holds true for lots of materials, including concrete, for example. Regarding leather specifically, it is super important if the leather has a finish on it that might diminish the bond strength. It doesn’t take a lot of time to properly prepare leather for best adhesion. Better to be safe than sorry applies here.

From the OP: " i plan on making luxury shoes and eventually small leather goods." With respect, I think that is the wrong way around. Making shoes worthy of luxury prices requires a much higher degree of skills, and I'd argue that even experienced leatherworkers wouldn't tackle them.

I had this "sticky" topic created just for conversations such as this so we don't have to reinvent the wheel each time. I agree that the stitching chisels offered by Weaver Leather are a good option. There are all sorts of variations and many of them are popular for different reasons. Some prefer the diamond shape while some favor the more "slit-like" holes created by irons with flat teeth. The best choice is the one that provides the look you want to achieve in the most economic manner. Choosing one because someone else says it is great may be helpful or not. Just because one person likes something doesn't mean you will get the same results or be happy with the results. So much depends on execution. First, you have to determine how far from the edge you want your stitching line to be. Second, you need to mark the stitching line with a divider or other tool, ensuring the lines are perfectly straight. Third, you need to make sure that you follow those lines, keeping the chisel perfectly vertical. Any leaning can and will cause the stitching line to become "wonky". Fourth, the choice of needles and thread are crucial. Thread either too thin or too thick can detract from aesthetics. Choosing the "right" size for the project is somewhat learned through experience. Nigel Armitage does make recommendations and they are very helpful. You can find the suggestions within the reviews he gives of various irons. It is on his website. Fifth, the hole spacing matters. Again, this relates to aesthetics. Sixth, pulling the thread in the proper manner, using correct tension and either tapping down the stitch line or not, all affect the aesthetics. The bottom line, so far as I'm concerned is to figure out what aesthetics appeal to yourself and then work towards executing all of the above in a manner which achieves a satisfying result. There is no microwave for experience, but it is true that there are some helpful recommendations out there that will help you along.

Leather garments have got to be very difficult to fabricate I imagine. The work looks incredible to my eye. Glad you shared some of your work with us. It is always nice to see what is possible, with the right skills and experience. Well done!

I agree.

Those are very nice. I like how they taper so that positioning is made easier. And they are quite attractive, which is never a bad thing. I haven't visited your Etsy page, how much will you be charging for these? Edit: I did visit the site and the prices are reasonable, especially the more "basic" stamps. They obviously create crisp, attractive results!

Well done! And yes, something to cherish. Way better than something "mass produced".

PastorBob makes a good recommendation. You definitely want to spray the finish, not brush. Also, try to find a Sharpie in a finer point. I can imagine the signatures looking "muddy" if the tip is too bold. Not ultrafine, but not bold is best I think.

For example...

What flaws? Anything with that much sentiment is perfect. Congrats to your son for his achievement! You are rightly proud.

I think you are being overly cautious. Give them a good "going over" to make sure everything looks good and sell them.

I think I get the point.

What you want is a diamond blade awl. The size of the blade depends on the type of work you do. There is no "one size fits AWL", sorry, couldn't resists. This one is probably a good place to start. After you get the hang of it and determine what size or sizes you need you can upgrade and invest in more quality hafts and blades. https://www.springfieldleather.com/Stitching-Awl-Medium

I found this video from Nigel Armitage very helpful. Like all of his videos.

The extremely generous RockyAussie posted this topic on the subject. I have to believe the talented folks here can make this pretty easily. I've seen some incredible skill in metalwork here and this should be fairly simple for some to produce.

Here's Bob's contact info: https://www.facebook.com/Bob-Park-Custom-Leather-131291347030087/

I don't know why anyone would wear a watch on an uncomfortable strap personally. I've made several for my own use and all have been very comfortable. I also recently purchased a watch from Long Island Watch Co., a "Flieger style" pilot's watch that came with a very comfortable leather band. It was very supple right from the get-go.

Sorry for your loss. Beautiful work, beautiful couple.

What you have accomplished to do is make your stitching look very tidy (in general) and consistent. Going around corners is a learning curve and with practice you will get better. Are you using a 2-prong iron to work the curves? If not, that will help. There are areas for improvement, but you are showing progress, and that's key. I'm sure he's thrilled, and that's worth a lot in itself.

I can tell you from experience why many don't give detailed explanations. It is because sometimes when you do, people quibble with every little thing you have said. Even if you are 95% correct, it is the 5% they go after. And so the next time you want to contribute, you think twice. And in the end, just saying "burnish" is easier than describing the whole process.

Not disagreeing at all. Same on other forums I frequent, including one on vintage bicycles. Many of the "oldtimers" and "longtimers" have pedaled off. It is a shame. I suppose if enough complaints are made, the moderators will take action. Other than leaving I guess that's the best recourse.

While I haven't put anyone on my ignored member list (yet, never say never) I respect your right to do so and for the forum making that option available. Should there really be a need for it is another matter. In general, people should err on the side of kindness and if they are exorcised about a particular topic, they should probably just move along. I know I have been guilty of engaging with people and it usually doesn't end pretty. I working harder to determine when to say when. The biggest problem seems to be gratuitous comments that are included with otherwise reasonable posts. I've tried to exercise restraint when tempted to follow suit. I am active on several non-leather forums and trust me, the issue is there too. Just a reflection of our times. Nothing is ever going to be perfect so I just try to separate the wheat from the chaff and keep as positive as possible. Kindness is never a wrong response.