jakc3 Report post Posted September 13, 2016 Hello, I'm interested in this kind of stitching and am wondering if somebody knows what's it called and how to make it. Also what are the benefits of using this stitch (better flexibility?). Another question i have is about a very small watch strap which a friend of mine ordered (less than 1cm in width). I made it out of three pieces since she wanted it to be raised in the middle (lining, core and upper part). How do I sew this since it's so small? I tried it on a test piece and the edges get distorted (wavy) the holes are very easy to rip. If i put the holes further from the edge it doesn't look so neat. Any advice? I'm stitching at 9 spi. Many thanks, Jakob Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Ferg Report post Posted September 13, 2016 Jakob, That is a "Zig-Zag" stitch. I don't know of a reason for using it other than it looks neat and different. Your machine may not be "Zig-Zag" capable. Ferg Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TinkerTailor Report post Posted September 13, 2016 (edited) That is done by hand by whip stitching all the way to the end and back again through the same holes. It can be done double needle as well. It is faster and easier to do than saddle stitch but is not even close to the durability. The stitching is exposed on the highest wear area of the item and if one stitch breaks, it will unravel for sure. It also uses way more thread than saddle, which can be a pain in long runs. I use it decoratively on butt seams like this where saddle stitch is impossible, note the way oversize thread: As to your comment on holes ripping, thinner leathers and finer stitching need smaller, more accurate holes and are not nearly as forgiving to tension issues. You need to get your tension right, and do it the very same every time or rips and puckers occur. May need to use a heavy leather sewing machine (like a 441 clone) leather needle as an awl....... Edited September 13, 2016 by TinkerTailor Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TonyRV2 Report post Posted September 13, 2016 Very informative Tinker...thanks! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Roq Report post Posted September 13, 2016 4 hours ago, TinkerTailor said: That is done by hand by whip stitching SPI? Just knot it off on the back side to finish? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TinkerTailor Report post Posted September 13, 2016 Spi depends on project, and preference. Yes, tying off on backside, or between layers are ways to end the stitch. So is melting back 2" of thread and leaving a charred ball, but again, all up to preference... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jakc3 Report post Posted September 15, 2016 Excellent, thank you for the information. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
