DieselTech

I don't own a Tippmann, but I do own a 441 class machine that I use the Tandy polyester 346 thread on. If I am sewing softer leather I can get away with a #25 needle. But if I go to a harder/more dense leather like saddle skirting I got to use a #26 needle with the 346 thread or the thread starts to break or fray. Also I am a newbie you could say to machine sewing.

Is the compressor side even needed. I guess I don't understand how that system works. Aren't you still going to need a vacuum? To me that looks like some type of air operated gate valve. I am interested in what you find out, because I will be buying a 801 type bell skiver next year, along with a 14" leather splitter.

Nice work. They both look great. Love your pick of materials on the knife. Sheath looks awesome too. Is your red dye, red? Or is it Oxblood color? Thanks.

Nice work. It looks great.

Did you pick some 346 thread up? Are you having tension problems with the 277 or 346 thread? Is your bottom stitch knots showing on the top? Or is your top stitch knot showing on the bottom? Congrats on the new piece of machinery!

Sounds good. I know padded dog collars I've seen made, are made oversized. Then they are cut to width & then stitched. I have been wanting to try some of the Cordovan Calf. It's pretty pricey if I remember correctly.

I hear guys that travel to rodeos & such do pretty good repairing & selling stuff, as you have mentioned.

I believe anything over 3/8" you got to call them & if they don't have it. I think they can make it or source it. Have you measured the lace on that holster? To me it sure looks like 3/8"

That is the Tandy 346 bonded polyester thread. It is supposedly pre-lubricated. I am using a #25 schmetz round point leather needle. A lot of people say I should be using a size #26 needle but I was getting by just fine with the #25 needle.

That's is a good price for that machine. Especially if it is the older cast iron model. I think the 346 thread would give you the look you are going for in your belts. I can post a pic of a short belt end, that is machine sewn with 346 thread if you want idea what it will look like.

Might look into some of the lining reinforcements. Check out the Brio or Salpa reinforcements. Look at Rocky Mountain leather for different reinforcement. There is other stuff available too or that could be used.

Can you not turn the feed dog upside down on a piece of plate aluminum. Then use a pair of vise grips to hold it up. Then heat the feed dog & solder it from the bottom while it's sitting upside down on the plate to keep the solder from flowing out. If you need I can take a pic of my explanation if you don't understand my directions. Lmao I addressed the wrong person sorry. @toxo will this idea work.

Nice work. It looks great.

Are you using mapp gas? I don't think propane will get it hot enough to solder. Also a liquid or paste style flux will probably work better.

Will the glue at the edges not hold the 2 strap pieces together to sew it? Or are you not using any type of glue. I think the Oslo or Saba might have been better padding choices. How thick is your top piece of leather. Is it still around 4-5oz thickness or thin like 2-3oz leather? I have never made a padded watch strap but been meaning to give it a go.

They got lace up to a 1/2" wide. I was on their site. Their kangaroo I know goes to 3/8" it's $44 for 12yards

I'm not sure where you are located. But look up "Y-KNOT LACE" They should have your lace.. They might even positively know what lace that is.

I'm thinking it looks like natural kangaroo lace. Is that lace 3/8" wide?

Looks nice. You do fine work.

Nice work. It looks great.

Welcome to the group. Bunch of great people here. Enjoy.

I agree with kgg. If you can string it up with 277 or 346 thread & can physically go sew something with it. I would jump all over that deal. Also it sure will give your hands a break from saddle stitching belts. Increase your production too.

It will be fine, set it somewhere in the sun for a a day or 2. It will eventually soak/ migrate it's way away.

Did your edge paint get cold enough to freeze? Try warming it in the microwave for 10-15seconds. Then put a small Allen wrench in a cordless drill & use it as a paint stir stick.

Welcome to the group. Bunch of great people here. Nice Ole rides! Need a couple Tommy guns to go with them sleek rides.