Costume Construction Query

[Kristabellabear]

Hi Everyone, my name is Chris. I am a new member. I am a costume creator and I have been asked to recreate early aboriginal garments which must look as authentic as possible for film. I have a very short time frame. I have created the design but have a couple of questions regarding the sewing and I was hoping that someone might be able to offer suggestions or point me to topics on this forum. I have chosen to use suede cowhide splits as the texture and pre dyed colour is as close as can get ( no time to dye ). For hand sewing I was thinking of using an s curve glovers needle. Is that a good idea? any other suggestion? Should I use artificial sinew? or what else would you recommend for sewing the suede together? There is a possibility that I may be able to sew some areas with a machine, I have at least three machines capable of this. Has anyone ever dropped the feeddogs to do free motion sewing on suede? Thank you