What size thread should one use for a holster, wallet, purse, etc?

[johnny7]

What size thread should one use for a holster, wallet, purse, etc? thanks

johnny

[Randy Cornelius]

I use 346 top and 277 bottom for all my saddle work, skirts, breast collors etc. also for my larger gun holsters and belts. For a med sized holster and belts I use 277 on top and 207 on bottom. For chaps, purses and checkbook holders I use 138. The smaller sized thread makes a nice looking job on the smaller projects. I even use 138 on some headstalls and dress belts. But a lot depends on what I happen to be making and what thread is already in the machine when I turn it on. Bottom line anything will work as long as it is sewn right. But I would not use 346 on a purse.

[Art]

Hi Johnny,

For holsters I use 346/277 in poly or 4 cord/ 4 cord linen, 5/4cord also works. You do have to make sure you lay down a substantial stitch groove with the big threads, 277/207 buries easier. For purses and wallets 138 works very well and my small machine is always loaded with that. For canvas and small formal or fashion items 92 or 69 may give a better look. You get a lot better color selection in the smaller sizes.

But ultimately, it is the look you want; they will all pretty much hold leather together, especially when glued. Decoration on a belt can be 46 or 69 with a corresponding high stitch count and look great. And while 69 or 92 on a western saddle might look a little weak, it makes English work look good.

However a word of warning, never actually count the number of spools of thread you may acquire, the dollar total can be quite depressing.

Art

What size thread should one use for a holster, wallet, purse, etc? thanks

johnny

[johnny7]

thanks for the replys, however I should have made it clear that I will be hand lacing, not using a machine.