Cowgirlup8807 Report post Posted January 8, 2014 Hello! I have just purchased my first TechSew 3650 HD (super excited about it by the way) and am planning on making headstalls, breastcollars, halters, etc. I have previously been using an old Singer that has done a great job, just ready to move up to the big leagues. I have heard about using a "saddle stitch" and a regular stitch.... what is the difference between the two? What is the typical thread size, stitch length, needle size that I should use for heavy harness leather from about 11-16oz thick for my tack? I have the needle that came with the machine, I believe they are 27 (if I am remembering correctly) and 207 thread. I remember there being a post about this but I cannot seem to find it to save my life. Any help you would provide would be great! Thank you so much! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
MadMorbius Report post Posted January 9, 2014 (edited) Although his may be of assistance for future applications, you're probably best using 277 thread with a size 200/25 needle. http://www.tippmanni...leandthread.php 415 Thread with a Size 250 Needle: Commonly used in rated products like logging, mining, and military nylon webbing and strapping. 346 Thread with a Size 230/250 Needle: Commonly used for mule and other heavy duty tack. Also used in boot and shoe applications. 277 Thread with a Size 200 Needle: Is the most commonly used thread size in leather crafting from saddle and tack, boot and shoe, gun and knife, and all other kinds of craft and industrial applications. 207 Thread with a Size 180/200 Needle: A favorite size thread for saddle bags, purses, and other thin material crafting. 138 Thread with a 160 Needle: Used mostly in belts, billfolds, purses and other thin material crafting. 99 Thread with a 130 Needle and 69 Thread with a 110 Needle: Is seldom used in leather applications unless the stitch is not to be a major part of the final design. This combination is more commonly used in fabric, vinyl, and other thin material applications. And this can be used to convert metric needle sizes: Edited January 9, 2014 by MadMorbius Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mlapaglia Report post Posted January 9, 2014 A saddle stitch or hand stitch, is done by hand with two needles, one on end of a length of thread. Normal or Lock stitch is what is done by machine. While a saddle stitch is considered by many to be the best and strongest there is nothing wrong with a lock stitch. All your clothing is made with that stitch. There may be a machine out there that does saddle stitch but I am not aware of it. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Cowgirlup8807 Report post Posted January 9, 2014 Thank you so much for the information! I really appreciate it and that helps ALOT! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
