'stiffening' soft leather for cutting..

[rodneywt1180b]

You might be getting a bow in your straightedge allowing the ends of the leather to move on your short runs

[fredk]

Two things which helped my cutting of thin leather;

1. Using a rotary knife

2. Cutting away from myself. I've always had a tendency to cut towards me, but cutting away on the thin leather seemed to reduced the drag effect

3. Using the rotary knife very, very, lightly. It just about kisses the leather. The sharper the blade the better that this light pass will cut

  ok, so thats three !    

[brmax]

You might consider the use of a basting tape. 

I use this sparingly, 3 places about two inch long, on a four foot aluminum rule. The center tape really helps great, just as your issue. 

Seamstick; its called. I use it on my templates. This I wouldnt do without, many say it is handy on other seams in securing a bit. I pick it up from marine upholstery suppliers. 

After awhile it may need replaced because of lint and such from canvas etc. 

Also as fredk mentioned I also really like using the rotary knife. In other materials like vinyls or canvas, its a new tool. This I know can be infringing on tradition. But Im positive they will only see more usage.

Seamstick is available in several widths, basically double sided clear. Maybe a 1/32 thick and easily in 1/4, 1/2” etc widths. 

 

Good day

Floyd

Edited November 22, 2018 by brmax