alexitbe Report post Posted July 28, 2019 (edited) Does anyone have any experience with sewing shoe uppers by hand? What spi would you recommend? I am thinking of 10 or 12... and slanted saddle stitch... Thanks Alex Edited July 28, 2019 by alexitbe Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Aven Report post Posted July 28, 2019 I just checked the shoes I made at Laughing Crowe. The uppers were sewn on a machine at 9 stitches per inch. I plan on making another pair by hand soon. I'll probably be going with 8 spi, mostly because I have a set but also because I think 12 is just too tight. The leather I'll be using 8 oz bullhide and it is nicely textured. If I were using something that was smooth, I might got with a higher spi, I don't know. I would have to see how it looks. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
alexitbe Report post Posted July 29, 2019 (edited) Well I have been recommended to not use leather thicker than 1.4mm for the upper, as a beginner... I think that is less than 8 Oz.... If you are using 8 spi, then maybe 10 spi is reasonable for me... Thank for your response Alex Edited July 29, 2019 by alexitbe Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kristian Report post Posted August 26, 2022 (edited) I’ve handstitched a couple of boot uppers with 6spi. Guess it’s ok for boots, would go up on formal shoes Edited August 26, 2022 by Kristian Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
