rawhide1 Report post Posted January 21, 2009 Howdy all A couple of questions they may sound silly but here gos. I've seen two different types of stitch channelers. One type has a round shaft with a brass piece threaded on the end. And the other has what looks like a three piece square shaft with two thumb screws. Are these used for the same purpose but are just different to be different or is there a reason they are different Which would a guy want to do belts, purses, and the like. And what is a fair price for one. I reckon I can figure out how to use one once I get my hands on it. Thanks for all and any help. Mike Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bruce johnson Report post Posted January 21, 2009 Mike, You are looking at the wrong tool. You are describing an angled or straight channeler. They originally were used by boot makers and harness makers with a sharp blade to cut a slit to sew in. The slit was then glued closed to make a hidden stitch. Seems like $30-60 buys most of them. For what you are looking to do, you want a stitch groover. There are a few styles with guides - Bob Douglas makes a unique one, Jeremiah Watt and Osborne make one like a compass with a loop type blade, and TLF makes one with an "L" shaped blade. I like to use one for straps and skirts that is an old shoemakers pattern with a wooden handle and a fence. It has a loop blade and will cut a nice narrow groove as deep as I choose to go. For free hand stitch grooves, some people call them a patent leather tools or gum tool. Jeremiah sells one that is nice. Bob Douglas usually has some on hand. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rawhide1 Report post Posted January 21, 2009 Hey Thanks Bruce I'm glad I asked before I bought one. I'll have to check into the right ones now. Thanks again, Mike Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
