Trimming Gussets Flush

[JamesR]

What would be the best tool for trimming gussets flush with the side of a bag.

I know they can sanded but I find sanding does not work to well with latigo.

I wondering if a sharp french edger would be the best tool?

What do you think.

Jim

[Nuttish]

Perhaps a Bisonette edger. I use them to trim and level the stitching allowance on rolled handles and interior seams.

[DavidL]

I've also wondered this. I would try stitching one end flush. Stitch all the way around both bottom corners until you are nearly all the way done, 2 or 3 cm left, mark the end with a 90 degree ruler.

It is common for bags to be made with alignment notches or alignment marks (on the leather or leather edge). 3 marks per corner, 1 center mark at the middle of bottom piece, 1 centering mark for each side . The alignment marks make sure that the leather will lay evenly allowing a perfect match.

[JamesR]

Thank you for the replies

I have a Bisonette but it rounds the edge. I was thinking more of getting the two layers flat.

The alignment marks sound like a good idea.

While we are talking about gussets do you glue them as a temporary measure to keep them aligned for

stitching or do you expect the glue line to be more permanent. I always assumed it was for alignment but was recently informed that it prevents the two layers from opening up on the edge.

Edited December 8, 2015 by JamesR

[DavidL]

The glue does both. The stitching is placed close (to the edge) to prevent separation.

[MonicaJacobson]

Yes, that helps mostly with getting a nice edge. Not that I've got nice edges... but I hear it's possible...