Members h3ndrix Posted July 18 Members Report Posted July 18 Hello All, I am looking for some info on the tightness of the stitch when doing machine work, but I always get answers on how to tighten the bobbin or the upper section of the machine. What I am looking for is a little bit different; I am trying to learn about how the stitch should look on the leather, how deep it should sit so to speak. Attached is a pic of what I mean, the farthest away is 3mm, then 7mm, then 4mm, and they all seem to sit at different depths. This should have something to do with the tightness of the thread, but what should a person aim for, or at least watch out for? Maybe stuff like puckering? I hope that was clear. Thanks. Quote
Members BlackDragon Posted July 18 Members Report Posted July 18 There are different techniques. You can use a groover to remove the top part of the grain so the thread sits in the groove and flush with the top. You can use a creasing tool to make a crease where you are going to stitch, this will make the thread sit lower but may still stick above the top. You can also sew on the surface and the thread will proud of the top. After sewing you can tamp down the stitches with a smooth faced hammer. I do this for anything that will have high wear on the stitching. Belts, holsters, wallets, etc Quote
CFM chuck123wapati Posted July 18 CFM Report Posted July 18 (edited) If I am correct, you want to know how much tension on both the top and bottom to make the stitch have the correct amount of tightness. And just how tight is right? That is a good question indeed. I have no idea, really. I set my fabric machine top tension to 5, which is midway, and then set the bobbin tension so it sews correctly. But like you i have no idea if the stitch is tight enough. My leather machines have no number system, but I try to set them about midway also. Sewing different-thickness threads with the same tension setting could also cause those differences you see. I am also waiting for an expert answer to this. Edited July 18 by chuck123wapati Quote Worked in a prison for 30 years if I aint shiny every time I comment its no big deal, I just don't wave pompoms. “I won’t be wronged, I won’t be insulted, and I won’t be laid a hand on. I don’t do these things to other people, and I require the same from them.” THE DUKE!
Members Cumberland Highpower Posted August 6 Members Report Posted August 6 There's another factor to "factor in" as well. There are different points on needles.... Each type of point can affect how the thread lays, tensions or sits. Some of that is also related to the thread diameter and type. (Poly/Nylon) I'd aim for a stitch that feels a bit firm when you catch your fingernail on it. Not loose enough to roll easily under thumb pressure. Quote
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