New guy + questions

[dickf]

So, I have been a shooter for quite sometime, and have experiene with big name holsters, and not-so big name makers, and for the most part I know what I like. I really want to give this a go, as making my own leather would really be a big reward for me. Problem is, I don't even know where to start. I guess my first question is...

How do you hand-stitch these holsters and keep them so uniform and exactly how do you properly hand stitch, period?

Thanks guys - you all do some awesome work.

[Duke]

first thing you need to do is find a pattern or make a pattern that you like. then you need to get your self some tools. I reccommend a stitching groover and an over stitcher. also astitching awl. and then a few needles, and some good thread.practice with your stitching groover and get used to it. then use it to cut a groove in your leather. you can then use the over stitcher to space out and mark your holes for your thread.at this pointyou can use a dremel or the awl to punch the holes through the leather.you need to then pull a bit of thread out and attach a needle at each end. push the needle through the leatherabout 2-3 holes back from the beginning, and sew toward the end hole.then back stich over what you already stitched, and continue on.you will push one needle through the hole, on one side, and the other needle throught the same hole, to complete a stitch. use your hands to tighten the thread, by pulling on each side at the same time.when you get to the end, stitch back a few holes, and cut the string flush. congrats.you did it.hope this helps.

[TwinOaks]

Once you have a basic pattern, and lay out your stitch lines, use a removable contact cement (along the lines of rubber cement) to hold the pieces together while you groove, mark the stitches, and punch the holes.

You can cheat on the holes by using a dremel or drill, but fair warning- an awl punched hole will reclose around the thread and in my opinion, look better. Drilled holes will always be drilled holes, and you have to use a drill bit / thread combination in the right proportions or you'll have ugly stitching.

I see Randy is reading this at the same time, and is probably typing a small book to add here. So, since he's a bit more experienced than me, I'll let him offer his methodology to you. Mine isn't really any different, and I've modified mine to reflect some of his advice. So, that said, look for RandyC's post- it's good info.

[Duke]

twinoaks is exactly right, awl holes look better.

[Billsotx]

Get Stolhman's book on The Art of Hand Sewing. It's the best 10 to 12 bucks you'll invest in stitching. Search this forum for stitching and sewing as there's several good posts of the topic. As suggested spend some time in practice. Repetition is the mother of skill.

[Srigs]

I use to hand awl stitch but I perfer to not bleed that much

The best way I have found to get good stitching lines is via 3 prong rectangle punch and mallet. I don't care for rubber cement myself but contact works for me after planing on distance from the gun. The punching the stitching lines is the last hole punched is used by one of the prongs to line up for the next punch so net you add two new holes... keep doing that until your done stitching. I like thicker waxed thread myself because it fills the punched holes and holds very well.

Note: Remember to plan on what to do first, second and third stitching assemblies so you don't allow you to add the leather loop for belt attachment. That would never happen to me

The paper form is very important and make it bigger than you need. I use to cold wet form the loose piece of leather around the gun (with plastic wrap) and that gives you a good idea where the stitching line needs to be. Use the contact cement, lightly draw where the stitching lines are going, stitch and lastly cut the excess leather. Finish the edges, hot wet form (hot tape water), dry, dyeing and top coat.

Hope this helps. :D

[dickf]

Thanks for the replies - it was what I was looking for. I guess it's off to Tandy's for me!

[Randyc]

Dick,

These guys covered hand stitching better then I could.

I machine stitch everything I build.

Best wishes on building holsters!

Randy