Overview of Leather
Leather is a type of material made from the hides of animals. It has been used for clothing, footwear, furniture and product decoration since the Stone Age. The leather-making process can be simplified into three stages: harvesting the hides, tanning the hides, and finishing the product. All three stages involve the use of various chemicals, machinery and manual labor. This makes leather a highly versatile material that can be molded into a number of shapes and used in a countless number of ways.
Leather and Sewing Machines
Leather can be sewn on just about any type of sewing machine. The type of sewing machine that works best will depend on the type of leather and the project being sewn. Leather is a durable material, so a machine that has a powerful motor and a heavy-duty needle will be better suited for stitching it. Standard sewing presser feet will also work with leather, but some machines come with feet specifically designed for use on leather and other heavy materials.
Materials Needed for Sewing Leather
In addition to a sewing machine, some other materials will be needed to sew leather. These include suitable needles, such as a leather needle for machines with a horizontal bobbin; an awl for tracing and marking; scissors or rotary cutters for cutting; edge skiving knives or blades for thinning the edges; and leather glue for bonding seams. Depending on the project, additional tools may be needed as well.
Tips for Sewing Leather
When sewing leather, it is important to take certain precautions to avoid damaging the material or the machine. Start by setting the machine for the correct type of stitch: a straight stitch is best, although a zigzag stitch can also be used. Make sure the needle is the right size for the material: between 70/10 and 90/14 is best. It is also important to use the right type of thread, such as waxed linen or artificial sinew. The machine should also be set on the right tension, depending on the type of leather and thread being used. The final step is to use an edge skiver to thin the edges.
Understanding the Sewing Process
Once all the materials are ready, the sewing process can begin. Start by tracing or marking the pattern pieces onto the leather, and then cut the pieces out. Place the pieces on the sewing machine and line them up before beginning to sew. Make sure the leather is securely in place before stitching. If a seam is too long, use an edge skiver to trim it down. Finally, use leather glue and pressure to seal any open seams.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most common mistake when sewing leather is not following the instructions correctly. Using the wrong needle or thread, setting the wrong tension, or cutting the leather too thick can all cause problems. To avoid these problems, make sure to double-check the settings before beginning to sew. Also, it is important to make sure that the leather is securely placed on the machine to prevent it slipping out of place.
Fabric Selection- Different Types and Varieties of Leather
There are different types of leathers available which come in a variety of colors and thicknesses. Choosing the right kind of leather for a particular project is important as some may be more suitable than others. For shoes, bags, and clothing, softer types such as lambskin or suede are often used. For furniture and decorations, thicker types such as saddlery or coats may be better suited.
Leather Care
Leather is a durable material that lasts a long time, but it still needs to be cared for properly in order to preserve its quality and look. If a leather item gets wet, it should be dried immediately with a soft cloth. Leather should also be treated regularly with leather conditioner to prevent it from cracking or becoming stiff. In addition, leather items should not be stored in direct sunlight or exposed to extreme temperatures as this can cause discoloration.
Conclusion
Sewing leather is a skill that requires practice and patience. The right materials and techniques must be used in order to ensure a successful project. Additionally, leather must be properly cared for in order to preserve its quality. With some practice and a bit of trial and error, anyone can succeed in creating beautiful and long-lasting leather items.
