Overview
Can you sew leather on a regular sewing machine? The short answer is yes, you can! There are some considerations to take into account though since sewing with leather is a bit different than other fabrics. With the right tools and techniques, it’s not difficult to get a successful result.
Advantages of Sewing with Leather
First of all, how is sewing with leather different? One of the main advantages of leather is its durability. Leather is a strong, durable material that’s good for bags, wallets, and other items that will see heavy use. Leather is also relatively easy to sew, and gives a polished, professional look. Plus, the sewing thread tends to blend more easily with the leather’s natural color than with other types of fabrics.
What You Need to Sew Leather
If you’re going to sew leather on a regular sewing machine, you will need a few specialized pieces of equipment. A Teflon presser foot is a must – regular presser feet will stick to the leather, so you’ll need a special one that won’t. You’ll also need a sharp leather needle, preferably size 16 or 18. Leather needles feature barbs that form a sort of notch along the blade – this helps to push the leather fibers to either side while you’re stitching.
In addition, a stitching awl can be helpful. This is a special device that allows you to restitch and repair any weak spots as you go. Even sueded leathers can be difficult to sew on a regular sewing machine, so a stitching awl will come in handy.
Best Ways to Sew Leather
When you’re actually sewing the leather, there are a few best practices to keep in mind. Start by cutting off any edges that could fray, and cut with a rotary cutter and a mat. Use pins to affix the leather and a thimble for your index finger when hand-stitching, and use a zipper foot when stitching zippers onto leather. Always start with a test piece of leather so you can practice and adjust your machine settings to get the best results.
Types of Leather and Threads
The type of leather you want to sew will also affect what type of thread you use. For heavier leathers, you’ll need a strong thread like polyester. If you’re working with suede, you’ll want to use cotton thread. You’ll also want to be sure you’re choosing thread that matches or blends naturally with the leather’s color.
Tips for a Professional Finish
Finally, there are a few tips to help you achieve a professional, polished finish to your leather project. Make sure the leather is unstretched before you start stitching. It can also help to give it a gentle spot-clean prior to sewing to remove any foxing or light spots. And when you’re done, be sure to apply a leather conditioner once you’ve finished sewing the project.
Safety Precautions
When working with leather, it’s important to follow some basic safety precautions. Always wear an apron or long-sleeved shirt to protect your skin from the leather’s heat, oils, and dyes. Be sure to use a dust mask when you’re cutting leather – the fibers from the leather are very fine, and can be easily breathed in. And use a decent pair of leatherworking gloves for extra protection.
Specialized Leather Sewing Machines
Sewing machines for working with leather can be a great alternative to using a regular sewing machine. As the name implies, these machines are designed specifically for working with leather, and come equipped with all the features you need to get a good result. First and foremost, they have presser feet that won’t stick to the leather. Some specialty machines also feature adjustable stitch lengths and wider feeds – this makes it easier to get the job done quickly.
The Sewist’s Guide to Sewing Leather
For anyone looking to learn more about sewing with leather, The Sewist’s Guide to Sewing Leather by Joanne Banko is a great resource. This book covers everything from cutting and assembling leather to understanding leather types and finishes. It’s a must-have for both the beginner and experienced sewist looking to get the best results possible.
Leather for Special Projects
Leather is a wonderful material for a variety of special projects, from garments to accessories. With the right tools, a bit of patience, and a steady hand, it’s not difficult to get beautiful, professional-looking results. From bags and wallets to wallets and skirts, leather is an exciting and versatile material to sew with.
Leather Working Tools
If you’re going to be sewing with leather, it’s important to have the right tools. A Teflon presser foot and good leather needle are musts – make sure to choose the right size for your project. You’ll also want to invest in a stitching awl, which will help to repair any weak spots as you go. And, of course, a decent pair of leatherworking gloves is always a good idea.
Finding Leather to Work With
Most fabrics stores carry a wide variety of leather. For more specialized leathers, you can look for artisan leathers from places like Etsy. Make sure to purchase a few extra yards to account for cutting errors, and be aware of any special care instructions that come with the leather. Some leathers require special treatment, so make sure to read up on the care instructions before you start working.
Finishing Touches
When you’re finished with your leather project, there are a few finishing touches you can add to get that completely professional look. Leather conditioner is a great way to protect the leather and keep it looking like new. You can also add a top-stitched hem or decorative bindings to the edges for extra detail. Once you’re done, you can proudly showcase your new leather item with no one being the wiser that you’ve made it yourself!
