How Do You Sew With Leather & Suede?
Sewing with leather and suede is rewarding and cheaper than buying ready-made goods. These textiles require special handling when sewing, although normal machines handle them just fine. Before cutting, lay out the skin. Like other textiles, leather has a distinct grain that runs lengthwise. Cut the pattern accordingly, with the grain arrow pointing in the appropriate direction as marked. Use pattern weights to hold the tissue still on the skin when cutting. Never use pins, since they “scar” the fabric and leave small holes. Cut all fabric according to the single-layer layout supplied with the pattern. Mark all darts with the chalk. Be sure to include all notches and clips to ensure proper fit. Attach the Teflon foot to the machine. If a Teflon foot isn’t available, layer tissue paper over the fabric between the foot and skin. Adjust the presser foot pressure to “1” or “0.” For thinner leathers, “2” will also suffice. The pressure control may be located in the box on the arm of the mach
