CUT. SKIVE. BEVEL. BURNISH.
GETTING STARTED IN LEATHERWORK
We’re here to take the guesswork out of leather crafting. Our “Leatherworking A-Z” blog series will introduce you to the main terms, tools and techniques associated with leatherwork. Once you’ve got a grasp on the lingo, find out the most essential tools and supplies you need to start building your leather craft toolkit.
SEWING MACHINES
Every stitch counts. Selecting a machine that was built for sewing leather will result in professional-looking, high-quality leather goods. An investment in a well-made leather sewing machine will save you time and money in undamaged leather, broken parts and repair bills — and will probably save your sanity too!
For serious leatherworkers needing industrial power and strength, nothing beats the Fabricator. This is the professional machine to build your business on. With its full-size table setup, exclusive Workhorse® Servo Motor and compound walking foot, the Fabricator breezes through soft- to medium-weight leathers up to 20 oz. Bring precision, power and productivity to your leather crafting with the Fabricator Sewing Machine.
SAILRITE LEATHER COLLECTION
VEG TAN LEATHER
This weight of veg tan is great for:
- wallets
- bags/clutches
- pouches
- inlays
- watchbands
- jewelry
- shoes
- jackets
VEG TAN LEATHER
This weight of veg tan is great for:
- wallets
- bags/clutches
- pouches
- inlays
- watchbands
- jewelry
- shoes
- jackets
VEG TAN LEATHER
This weight of veg tan is great for:
- wallets
- bags/clutches
- keychains
- aprons
- knife sheaths
- jackets
- costumes
- bookbinding
VEG TAN LEATHER
This weight of veg tan is great for:
- bags/clutches
- small cases
- watchbands
- knife sheaths
- aprons
- jackets
- costumes
- notebook covers
VEG TAN LEATHER
This weight of veg tan is great for:
- wallets
- bags/clutches
- pouches
- inlays
- watchbands
- jewelry
- shoes
- jackets
VEG TAN LEATHER
This weight of veg tan is great for:
- wallets
- bags/clutches
- pouches
- inlays
- watchbands
- jewelry
- shoes
- jackets
VEG TAN LEATHER
This weight of veg tan is great for:
- wallets
- bags/clutches
- keychains
- aprons
- knife sheaths
- jackets
- costumes
- bookbinding
VEG TAN LEATHER
This weight of veg tan is great for:
- bags/clutches
- small cases
- watchbands
- knife sheaths
- aprons
- jackets
- costumes
- notebook covers
POPULAR LEATHER PRODUCTS
LEATHERWORKING
TOOLS IN ACTION
DETERMINING LEATHER THICKNESS
Knowing how thick your leather hide is will help determine if it's right for your project. Measuring your leather's thickness with a leather gauge tool is the first step of any leather project.
USING A LEATHER STROP
Maintaining your leather tools is one of the most important parts of the craft. Keep your tools sharp using a leather strop and polishing compound to ensure clean, precise cuts every time.
MARKING LEATHER
There are several tools used to mark leather. Use a scratch awl to pattern leather prior to cutting. A stitch groover marks stitch lines for machine or hand stitching.
GLUING LEATHER PIECES TOGETHER
A common practice is to glue layers together prior to sewing. Using the right tools and glue applicators ensures accuracy and control when applying glue to your leather pieces.
BURNISHING LEATHER
Burnishing leather edges seals cut edges and buffs them to a slick, glossy shine. There are two popular burnishing methods: hand burnishing and machine burnishing.
FINISHING LEATHER EDGES
Sand, groove, bevel, sew, burnish. These steps come together to create a beautiful finished piece. Using the right tool for the task produces high-quality, professional-looking leather goods.
DETERMINING LEATHER THICKNESS | DETERMINING LEATHER THICKNESS | DETERMINING LEATHER THICKNESS |
Knowing how thick your leather hide is will help determine if it's right for your project. Measuring your leather's thickness with a leather gauge tool is the first step of any leather project. | Knowing how thick your leather hide is will help determine if it's right for your project. Measuring your leather's thickness with a leather gauge tool is the first step of any leather project. | Knowing how thick your leather hide is will help determine if it's right for your project. Measuring your leather's thickness with a leather gauge tool is the first step of any leather project. |
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