Question 1

Why is a leather sewing machine needed?

Accepted Answer

Making leather products is a difficult task. The biggest problem you would face while sewing leather is that there is no space for mistakes. One wrong stitch can destroy the material and make it worthless. This is because when you are stitching leather you are making a permanent and visible hole that cannot be rectified. Leather also tends to stick to the presser foot which can cause further problems. Leather sewing machines are designed to overcome these problems. The best leather sewing machines also offer a longer stitch length option as longer stitches provide a stronger and secure seam when working with leather.

Question 2

Can you use home sewing machines to sew leather?

Accepted Answer

The simple answer is, no. Of course, you will find a lot of tips and tricks online for sewing leather using your home sewing machine. Most of these videos and articles recommend you buy specialized accessories like foot and needles. These may work for minor patch-up work. But if you are serious about creating custom-made leather products like a professional, the only option is to get a heavy-duty sewing machine that supports leather applications.

Question 3

What kind of needles are best for sewing leather?

Accepted Answer

Sewing machine needles are sized in metric and imperial. The larger the numbers, the thicker the needle. Leather applications require special needles that are thicker and longer to penetrate the leather as you sew. They are spear-shaped to ensure that the leather is cut through easily as the stitch is formed. Schmetz needles number 120 is the best choice for sewing thick leather. Schmetz S point needles are good for softer leathers, but diamond point works better for hard or dry leathers. The Schmetz Jeans & Denim 18/110/5/PKG could also work for most types of leather.

Question 4

What type of thread to use for leather?

Accepted Answer

It is crucial that you use stronger treads while sewing leather. Never use threats made of cotton as the tannins in the leather will erode the thread over time. It is best to use polyester and nylon if you want to ensure longevity. Bonded nylon is a good option as it is a long thread. The bonding process it undergoes adds strength and also reduces friction which can make sewing easier. You could also any heavy-duty top-stitching threads as they will look good on leather.

Question 5

What are the top brands when it comes to leather sewing machines?

Accepted Answer

When it comes to leather sewing machines, the top brands are Singer, Brother, Janome, and Bernette. Among the four, Singer stands out as the premium brand with its rich history and innovative technology. It is also an American Manufacturer. Brother and Janome are brands headquartered in Asia but have a rich history and international presence nonetheless. Bernette is owned by the Bernina Textile Group and is manufactured and headquartered in Switzerland.