Pampeano Belt - How to punch pattern for stitching?

[CJJ]

I'm interested in making a hand stitched Argentinean style pampeano belt like the one from Zilker in the image below.  Here's a brief video of the process.

The other two images below show how they use a cutting die to punch the patterned slits for stitching.  Of course, I don't have one of these dies, or a press for that matter.  Any ideas how I might go about marking and punching a consistent pattern?  Even if I could mark the pattern consistently I'm thinking a simple cut from a craft knife wouldn't be wide enough for stitching.  Especially towards the middle of the pattern where there are two layers of thread.

Any bright ideas?  Also, any thought on what type of thread would be best for this project?  Flat, round, material etc...

[chuck123wapati]

punch two holes of whatever size you need then cut between them with a knife to make your slots. or buy a slot punch if you can find one the right size.

[Dwight]

I wouldn't wear one to a dog fight . . .  

May God bless,

Dwight

[GrampaJoel]

How about just getting a screwdriver the right width and just punch a pattern you like. 
It seems that thread is being used for the design,  so I would think that the punched spaces wouldn’t need to be very big.

As a thought to myself shared. I don’t think going over the edge of the belt would be good for the thread life.

 It seems to me it would be a place to wear out and then the thread design would unravel.

Joel

[Klara]

My guess (!) for the thread would be waxed macramé thread - micro-macramé also comes from South America, as far as I know. But I figure waxed leather sewing thread will work as well, though there's probably fewer colours available. I figure waxed thread has a better chance of staying put while wrapping...

And now I really want to try this design  - on a bracelet, for starters?

I think I'd make a cardboard template and use @GrampaJoel's screwdriver idea...

 

Edited July 11, 2023 by Klara

[chuck123wapati]

5 hours ago, Klara said:

My guess (!) for the thread would be waxed macramé thread - micro-macramé also comes from South America, as far as I know. But I figure waxed leather sewing thread will work as well, though there's probably fewer colours available. I figure waxed thread has a better chance of staying put while wrapping...

And now I really want to try this design  - on a bracelet, for starters?

I think I'd make a cardboard template and use @GrampaJoel's screwdriver idea...

 

the problem with using something that doesn't remove some of the leather in the hole is it may not lay flat. worth a try though if you have an old screwdriver. 

[CJJ]

Thanks for all the ideas.  I like the screwdriver idea.  Thinking a sharp woodworking chisel may work even better to create just a little more width with less effort.

Here's a pic of a quick test piece I did on some scrap to make sure I understood the stitching.  I didn't have the time to figure out a pattern yet so I used a wing divider to lay down some guidelines.  Not to bad in my opinion if you can ignore the guidelines and cheap materials.  to make these slits I used a craft knife with a square chisel style blade.

I agree that the threads may end up wearing over time but that doesn't really bother me.  That's the beauty of this hobby. You can always just make a new and improved version of anything you want.

[GrampaJoel]

Well I for one would like to see your finished project when you get it done.

Living here in SOCAL,,, I occasionally see some work from south of the border that catches my eye, and I wonder how it was made.

have fun

Joel

[Klara]

16 hours ago, CJJ said:

That's the beauty of this hobby. You can always just make a new and improved version of anything you want.

So true! And your test piece is looking good!

[optimusprimestamp]

Here's a step-by-step process to create a punched pattern for stitching on your Pampeano belt:

1. Determine the Pattern: Decide on the pattern you want to create with your stitching. Common patterns for Pampeano belts include geometric designs or traditional motifs. You can find inspiration from existing Pampeano designs or create your own unique pattern.

2. Measure and Mark: Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure and mark the desired spacing and alignment of your stitching holes. Ensure that the marks are evenly spaced and aligned along the length of the belt.

3. Punch the Holes: With the leather punch, align the desired hole size with each marked point and punch through the leather. Apply steady pressure to create clean and even holes. Repeat this process for all the marked points along the belt.

4. Check and Adjust: Once you have punched all the holes, check the spacing and alignment to ensure consistency. If needed, make any adjustments by adding or repositioning holes.

5. Stitching: After punching the holes, you can proceed with stitching your Pampeano belt. Use a waxed thread or strong nylon thread and a leather needle to sew through the punched holes, following your desired stitching pattern. There are various stitching techniques you can use, such as saddle stitching or whip stitching, depending on the look you want to achieve.