Cowboy 3500 Pulling Thread Completely Through Holster Lining Pigskin

[Tallbald]

I've been asked by several customers to begin offering leather lined holsters too. To date I've researched the process and experimented with the 2 -3 ounce pigskin I have on hand mated to 7-8 ounce veg tanned cowhide. My machine, a wonderful Cowboy 3500 pulls the thread completely through the thin pigskin essentially cutting it at the edge sewn seams.

I'm going to switch to cowhide lining when I order another hide for springtime crafting.

I'm thinking 4 ounce cow hide for lining.

Will cow hide be more resistant to the pull-through cutting than the pigskin? I find I really don't care for the pigskin. Just my opinion.

I lowered the upper tension as far as I thought I could safely. Suggestions please?

I am using #277 nylon thread upper and lower.

All thanks to folks here. Don.

[dfrensdorff]

A longer stitch will help i.e. less spi.

[Tallbald]

I see. My usual is 6 stitches per inch. Would 5 make a difference maybe? Thoughts on cowhide versus pigskin? Don

[OLDNSLOW]

I think he is say to go to like 7-8 if your at 6, the tighter the stitch will cause the stitch to pull and tear the material, that is what I think he is saying anyway, how have you been?

O n S

Ron

[Wizcrafts]

Back off the bobbin case tension until it has an easy, smooth pull. Make sure there isn't a thread stub sticking out either end, which would interfere with smooth rotation of the bobbin. Reduce the top tension to balance the knots. Less bobbin tension makes for an easier pull on the top thread and will be less likely to rip the lining leather.

I would not sew #277 any tighter than 5 to the inch if you are using an S point needle. These wedge or chisel shaped points slice the leather at the front and back of the center of the hole. A triangle or diamond point needle creates a rounder hole on the bottom, with a triangle shape on top. You can sew closer stitches with these needles.

Finally, try using #207 in the bobbin. It lies flatter on the bottom and is easier to knot and pull up that #277.

[Tallbald]

Thank you all so much. Oldnslow thanks for asking. The winter has been up and down from a health standpoint but spring will bring renewal for both my loving wife and me. We hope to be able to garden a little bit and return more fully to the crafting we so love. I expect to start a simple and (hopefully) affordable website for my leather arts, and generate some supplemental income this spring. My belts and holsters are selling well on a shooting forum I frequent, but I need to expand the customer base I reach for. I've also been asked to begin offering ranger style belts and am looking into adding those to my offerings.

I do so hope you are well! Don