Centering designs on items that fold

[Crystal]

Hi All!

On items like checkbook covers and other things that have a fold, what is the best way to make sure your design is centered? The fold has no real "border" and the opposite side will have a stitch line and an edge. Visually is it better to center from the stitch line or from the actual edge of the project? This would be for a design that is not carried to the backside of the project.

Thanks!

Crystal

[bruce johnson]

Crystal. Here's hoping I understand the question right. I was kind of given this rule of thumb - Try to get as close as you can to the fold, but the cut or bevel line should be either supported by a stiff backing (like on a binder) or far enough away it will not be any part of the fold on a checkbook or wallet. There is more tolerance for lines that are beveled and not cut, but any folding tension on these is across that line, a weak spot, and can separate with use. I usually gouge my folds on the flesh side and allow for my tooling borders to be within the full thickness of the leather. Back when, I was taught that patterns never crossed a fold that would be worked. They would tear out, pop open, etc. Some of the pattern packs have pretty well tossed this out, so I guess take my advice with a grain of salt. As far as the visual, I get my top or side in the right place for the fold, and then establish my borders off the stitch line. Visually I like my stitch line to be centered between the edge of the piece and the border. I have seen big borders to account for the extra space needed at the fold and then carried that same margin all the way around. They looked a bit odd to me stitched but lacing filled that gap in and looked alright.

[Crystal]

Thanks, Bruce!

You actually gave me some good points to think about. I was going to try to go without a border, but I think adding one will solve my spacing isses. Back to the pencil.

Thanks again!

Crystal

[ClayB]

Crystal,

You could also draw the border on the pattern just to help with the positioning, but not trace it onto the leather.

[Storm]

Crystal I know what you are talking about and my solution has been to use my computer. I will create the pattern in Illustrator and include the border, centerlines and so forth.

Then take it into Photoshop and select the area inside the borderline and erase it. I will create a blank new layer beneath the pattern. The erased area is like a window and under the window I place the pattern I want to use. Size it and or move it until evrything looks right and then print it out. Then I will trace it down on the film and after to the leather.

Sometimes I will scan in an original design or an old Stohlman floral. I have grown accustomed to being able to combine patterns and or duplicate and rotate. I used to have access to a good printer which I could directly print to matter film but now I have to trace to the film by hand.