I have received my manual from Proleptic, It is much more complete than the one from the Smithsonian,which was mostly testimonials. I had hoped for something bound for $14, rather than a stack of Xeroxes, but the information is there.
The manual talks a lot about the devices for waxing the thread, heated pots of molten wax through which the thread is drawn. Will it sew with dry thread? Can one use pre-waxed thread? The only leather-sewing thread I am familiar with is the pre-waxed stuff sold for use with sewing awl.
Anyone have a source for needles?