So I got my first job from the Auto Trim business, and it is on leather. I have needles. What kind of stabilizer do I need. I hope the font I chose is close enough. I assume I do not use a topping. Any tips or tricks for this material?

Christie found a font that may work well and taught me how to make an outline object so I can then adjust the density. Whoo Hoo! I also have the font that comes with the software. I will stitch them both out and see what the client prefers.

A lot will depend upon the weight and thickness of the leather...This will affect both the type of needle you choose and the stabilizer. I would try to get either a sample of the same leather or a similar one and do some testing... What type of needle are you planning to use?

1 comment

by cfidl 04 Mar 2020

I went to 3 stores today looking for 80/12 needles as recommended by emblibrary. I have 90/14. I finally had to order them from amazon. I think I will use a stiff stabilizer/interfacing that I have been using with vinyl and has worked well and under that I can use a cutaway or a tear away. not sure yet. I have 2 pieces of scrap for testing.

If your design has a needle down (like it starts in the center of the hoop instead of at the beginning stitch) you will make a hole. They do not close up in leather. Just keep that in mind.

1 comment

by cfidl 04 Mar 2020

Thank you I will make sure. I still have not decided if I will use a font that comes with my software or the piece I digitized or something from Christie. More tomorrow!

If you keep breaking thread, get some silicone lubricrant fabric slip spray, also works well on lycra...wendy

2 comments

by cfidl 04 Mar 2020

I hope that does not happen, however what would I spray it on?

by stock 06 Mar 2020

spray direct on any fabric, doesn't leave any marks

Light glue tape instead of pins!

1 comment

by cfidl 04 Mar 2020

I had not even thought of that. he pieces are not that big but are bigger than my hoop. I am not sure how I will tape it down or if I should use a temporary adhesive spray.

Does the design have to be specially digitized so doesn’t perforate the leather or vinyl? I’m just asking, I have no idea.

1 comment

by cfidl 03 Mar 2020

I digitized it myself and do not like it. I will probably need to ask for help.

I am no help. Never had used leather. The first thing I would check is Youtube and Emblirary. Good luck. I am curious what others have to say.

1 comment

by cfidl 03 Mar 2020

Well I have the wrong size needle. I do have the correct stabilizer and do not like any of the fonts. Emblibrary says a light design which is not a satin stitch.