Stitching Groove or Crease

[DrJSquared]

I've seen people on the internet use a grooving tool before chiseling the stitching holes and I've seen them make a crease either with a tool or dividers.  If I'm making things like book portfolios and knife sheaths, I don't think cutting the leather with a grooving tool is going to hurt it strength wise.  Is there a preference of one technique over the other or a reason I might put a crease in vs a cut groove?

Thank.

[chiefjason]

I use both.  Groover if I am cutting before dyeing.  Creaser if I dye first and don't want to touch it up.  And I usually crease the small pieces I use to cover snaps and such.