saulgoode Report post Posted July 21, 2008 Hello, I have been lurking here for a little while, y'all do some amazing work. I am just getting into leather work, mainly just practicing getting technique down right now. There are some excellent resource threads here. I have a question: I am planning on undertaking a project, and I would like to get the seams machine stiched, but I can't warrent laying out cash for a machine right now. I was wondering if I make my patterns and do the tooling coulod I take it to a saddle shop or simillar? Is this very common to take pieces in and have someone else stich it up? Just curious before I jump in over my head. Thanks Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
electrathon Report post Posted July 21, 2008 Yes, that is am option. You can also find a local cobbler if that is easier. Another option is to hand stich it. Not that hard once you get the hang of it. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Roger Report post Posted July 21, 2008 hand stich it! why put your work into someone elses hands! you can't go wrong with learning to saddle stitch and it will be good and strong Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SCOUTER Report post Posted July 21, 2008 Welcome! Believe it or not this dilemma is more common then you think! The more you work with Leather the more you will want to try new projects and eventually you will want some nice stitiching to finish off a proiject. Hand stitching is by far the best way to assemble projects, however it is an art. Those that can do it well deserve praise because it takes time, effort and skill to make good looking stitches. Machine stitching is the next best choice but many machines are costly and do involve a bit of a learning curve. If you are doing small projects like a Knife sheath or small case you can get by with hand stitching, but if you plan to do belts or bigger projects a machine can be a blessing. Here is what i found to be the basics; Hand Stitching- A good awl, needles, good thread, bees wax, Al Stolhmans book on Hand Stitching, Stitching horse cost to start about $60- Tipmann Boss- An entry level machine that you can learn on is easy to operate and when you are ready to move up to a better machine you can sell for very close to what you paid for it! Cost $1400- Artisan Leather StitcherToro 3000- The "Cat's Pajamas" for crafters. The machine that everyone loves! Will do everything you need and more Cost- $2200- Whatever you choose good luck and remember to have fun! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
