Where to start?- New to leatherworking

[zuludog]

A stitching pony or sewing pony is a wooden clamp to hold the leather while you sew it. The usual method is to place it on a chair then sit on it so that the workpiece is in front of you. Those with a built in seat are called sewing/stitching horses. For larger pieces of work you use taller freestanding clamps called saddler's clamps

It's not too difficult to make your own, and to build it onto an old wooden chair if you wish, and make a sewing horse. There are threads on this forum, and videos on YT. If you're going to buy one, consider the work you might do; saddler's clamps are expensive, but what will do a lot will do a little. I only make small items so far, like sheaths & wallets, so I use a home - made pony. It's not exactly an outstanding example of the cabinet maker's art, but it does the job

I often think that a stitching pony is a bit pricey for what you get, but it's one of those things where nothing much else will do. You can manage small items without one, but a pony makes it so much easier

As you can get to Manchester I suggest that before you do much else you visit Tandy's shop in Openshaw. The staff are pleasant & helpful, and on Wednesday afternoons they have an open session where you can try out different tools & materials. You can read & watch all you want, but there's nothing quite like seeing things in the flesh as it were, and talking to people face to face.

I f you do go, would you like to meet up there? I can bring some of my home - made tools. PM me.

If you decide to buy a stitching pony, and no doubt in the near future there will be other things as well, consider joining Tandy's discount scheme. And/or get on their contact list, then you will get early notice of sales & offers

 

Edited August 11, 2016 by zuludog

[OnePivot]

I use a broad flat faced vice for stitching. Its drastically more ergonomic. It was $10 at harbor freight and wood blocks can easily be attached. 

Edit: more ergonomic than using nothing. I'm sure a real horse is better, but I had the vice already. Its nice to have something. The initial investment is pretty large, so it can be helpful to repurpose what you can!

Edited August 11, 2016 by OnePivot