keeping the gusset tops aligned when machine sewing

[TimberWolf]

Hi, I want to ask if anyone has a good way of keeping the gusset tops aligned when machine sewing saddlebags? The light weight gusset is not a problem as I usually glue it into place first. My problem is with the heavier latigo leather (7-8 oz) as it does not shape or glue well. So far, best solution I found is just clipping the gusset with small spring clips every 5 inches or so. Do you guys have a better method? Thank you!! Tim

[Luke Hatley]

Timber Wolf, that is the way i do mine, also i try to use a larger Radius

on items that i can. also some sanding on the parts will help

[TimberWolf]

Thanks, Luke!!

[Johanna]

I have always tied off the parts every so far with sewing thread or bread twist ties. I just remove and discard as I'm sewing.

Johanna

[mulefool]

I run a stitch groove on the gusset. Then I use brass tacks in the groove to tack the gusset to the back. I pull the tacks out as I go. I use an accordian style gusset of latigo in my saddlebags. I just hold it to sew the gusset to the front, don't need any tacks. I cut the gusset just a hair long and it always comes out fine and I just trim the extra off. I use 6-7 oz latigo and the accordian may make it easier to shape.

[TimberWolf]

Thanks everyone! I appreciate the help.

[barra]

Use location/progression marks on both the gusset and body of the bags. As you sew the mark on the gusset must line up with the mark on the body and then you know your on track. On light weight leathers you can temp tack the parts together with a stapler and pick out the staples as you go.

Barra

[esantoro]

For veg tanned 5 oz and thicker I started gluing with white tanners bond and clamping. No problem on the straightaways, but I still have difficulty on rounded corners. Recently I narrowed the radius of the corners and found stitching even more difficult. I'd like to try a raised needle plate, one for stirrups and one for holsters, which I think will help tremendously.

Does anyone have any tips or tricks that would get around having to use these raised needle plates?

Ed

[TimberWolf]

Thanks, Ed ! I haven't tried a different needle plate. The problem I have with gluing latigo is that with the extra oil in the leather the glue doesn't bond like vag tan.

For veg tanned 5 oz and thicker I started gluing with white tanners bond and clamping. No problem on the straightaways, but I still have difficulty on rounded corners. Recently I narrowed the radius of the corners and found stitching even more difficult. I'd like to try a raised needle plate, one for stirrups and one for holsters, which I think will help tremendously.

Does anyone have any tips or tricks that would get around having to use these raised needle plates?

Ed