Field Repair Tools for Backcountry Life: Speedy Stitch

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www.coalcrackerbushcraft.com
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and as always....
Stay in the Woods,
Dan

[@EricBittner]

I’ve used one for probably 40 years from repairing backpacks & sails to mkaing leather work. One thing I think you missed…if you look at the chuck, you’ll notce a space that lines up with the tension pin. What you do is run the thread through the chuck and into the groove on the needle. This helps keep the thread in the needle groove so you get a single loop as you pull the needle out slightly for the catch-stitch, which will always be on the opposite side of the tension-pin. THX, great vid as usual.

[@pmcmva]

Answer to your opening question: I sure have, and they sure are! Thanks to spreading the word.

[@BrackenOutdoors]

That is an ingenious little item, makes you wonder how many skills and tools we have lost over the years in the name of modernisation.

[@davidneal6920]

As a former infantry solider back in the 1990’s we used to carry one of those things everywhere!! Amazing tools. Probably still got mine in the garage somewhere if I look hard enough. Cheers Dave 🇺🇸 🇳🇿

[@OutnBacker]

Another great vid from Coalcracker. I have both the Speedy -Stitch and a version from Tandy Leather. I highly recommend the Tandy model. Here's why: Firstly, I have no connection with any company in my review. I am a skilled amatuer leather worker, and have been for many years. I have used both models extensively on small jobs like holsters, sheaths, and sail work. I've used them for reinforcing small stress areas on satchels, bags and gear covers where my machine won't reach. That's all. 1) Speedy Stitch has the bobbin inside the handle and it is turned to 90 degrees from the out feed angle - like a Zebco fishing reel. While I like the better Zebcos, this isn't optimal for a smooth thread feed, with frequent overlapping friction and stops and starts. 2) For tension, Speedy Stitch relies on a tack that you wind the thread around once. It is not effective for all thread types, and applies too much braking with waxed threads, which tend to stick. It is better with nylon sail thread. 3) In order to see how much thread is on the bobbin, you have to open the handle and extract it, because it is at that 90 degrees so you can't readily get a look just by peering into the cavity. In short, it is somewhat awkward to use because of the fits and starts that occur. The Pro is that it does the job as long as you don't mind some fussing. I do. Tandy version: no real Cons. 1) The bobbin is on the outside, in-line like a trolling reel or a baitcasting reel. Out feed tension is accomplished by your index finger with a little pressure - again, like a baitcaster. There is no tack with a tight loop around it that binds. 2) Bobbin is open to the eye and is much easier to reload a new one with a simple axle screw. 3) Never a tangled bobbin because of the natural out feed angle. Works as well as the Speedy Stitcher, but more intuitive in its operation, resulting in a faster job.

[@peterott9162]

Thanks for the review man, I'm definitely going to keep this in mind.

[@scruffscrofula]

Great info!

[@JD-gn6du]

Can confirm that the sewing awl that is available from Tandy Leather and a few other venders is absolutely great! I’ve got 3 of them my oldest one and most used being roughly 28 years of use.

[@OutnBacker]

@@JD-gn6du Yeah, it's just more intuitive in its use.

[@earlrudis9508]

@@JD-gn6du Have my tandy for over 30 yrs and still find uses for it, great set up!

[@chardpp]

A good way to thread the hole in the handle is to take a piece of thread, fold it in half and then push the loop from the outside back into the handle. Then simply pass your working thread through the loop and pull them both back out.

[@SALTYCOMBATDIVER-ExInstructor]

Actually, the originals (I don't know about the Harbor Freight versions) the hole is angled and large enough you can use the straight needle to thread the hole by pushing the needle through the hole and passing the thread through it and then pull the needle out and the thread comes through the hole with it.

[@Seplicar]

You forgot to mention, the triangle tipped needles are designed to allow you to twist the awl clockwise and counter clockwise when pushing through dense weave fabrics and thick leather to spread the materials for easier penetration.

[@tomconway8881]

It’s great. I’ve found it very useful. I’ve fixed sandals folding lawn chairs leather belts jeans. It works for almost any sewing project.

[@larrystone9474]

Thanks a lot for this instructional video. I've had one of these creatures, complete with two needles and a bobbin full of thread, for so long I have no idea how I acquired it. Thanks to you, I now know how to use it.

[@rage7891]

The video was very informative but on the speedy stitch after you rap the cord around the outside silver button you place the string into the gap in the handle. Once the string is through the gap, you then run it up the gap of the needle and tighten the needle down. Ensure the needle hole and gap is in line with the silver button. Thread the needle through the eye and then screw the cap over the needle. After that is all done then you can start sewing. The string going through the gaps in the handle and needle keep the string snug up to the needle itself while sewing. But it still has slack to open up on the other side to run the string through to finish the stitch. You can go faster and get tighter stitching this way. Its in the instructions as well.

[@jackleebron3907]

I use my Speedy Stitch awl a lot. Great for making knife sheaths and repairs. I can’t imagine trying some of the stitching I do without it.

[@archibaldtuttle8481]

I have two. One with several eyed needle sizes for conventional use. The second with an Awl-point and several hooked needles. A typical Speedy-Stitch will handle any tool-tip with a 5mm base diameter. The same kit has a pair of fiber-optic scissors that easily cuts UHMWPE fiber and a pair of larger hemostats, a soft-iron wire threading tool for 12-strand rope spicing, cheap thimbles for a couple of fingers on both hands and an assortment of fine lines -- monofilament, twisted tread up to braided 2mm, my fishing bits and bobs, reserve tinder, diamond hones, a pin-drill, a small fixed blade, lighter, mischmetal, tin w/ miniIFAK, what some people call "fixin' wax", some snare wire & way too many stainless safety pins and some cloth scraps. All in over 4 & 1/2 pounds. No -- I don't pack light. I'm too old to run but all my gear and clothing are repairable and leaning to mostly waxed canvas.

[@BradGryphonn]

When I was in my teens, 40+ years ago, I used to make my own sheaths using a speedy-stitcher.

[@craigmooring2091]

Not a bad demonstration, however, a better way to lock it at the end is to double back a stitch or two. When you cut your thread cut it beyond the point of the needle so you can avoid having to re-thread it if continuing with the same thread. At the beginning, close the end cap once the thread is through the hole in the bobbin chamber, pull out enough thread, thread the needle, insert the needle into the chuck, aligning the needle's groove with the slot in the handle, and THEN slide the collar over the needle and tighten the chuck. That sequence makes it easier to keep the thread coming from the bobbin under tighter control.

[@terryqueen3233]

I've had one of those speedy stitchers for a long time but I hadn't used it in quite some time so about a month ago I pulled it out to see if I could remember and that what I remembered. Mine had the thread Roll right behind where you put the needle so it was really easy to thread out through the hole but it works the same way you just showed and they are worth the money in a pinch if you don't have two needles which I know how to do that too then grab you one of those because it's worth the money to have. Y'all listen to Dan he knows what he's talkin about. Y'all stay vigilant now you hear!

[@ImaOkie]

Use one all the time as a carpenter , stitch of my nail bags , over all's , old chisel pouches etc. Super handy !

[@teddahrable]

As a carpenter, I, too, have used this for 40 years for the same thing ... stitching up gear that won't go on a machine I never had as a kid, anyway. I have several now and even found miniature Chinese knock-offs in brass. They don't hold a bobbin but fit completely in a single slot of my issued sewing kit. Saved my butt and other camping companions' butts lots of times as well. Handier than two needles when sewing a few layers of webbing to a leather reìnforcing backer. No new gear here for me, but I'm still pulling that dang "S" needle out more than I ever thought at home. Thanks, Coalcraker, for THAT gear tip!!

[@ImaOkie]

@@teddahrable don't know about your nail bags , the outside of mine are crusty as 12 day old bread from all the glue wiped on them , nail set pouches are 1" shorter , corners are kinda rounded , and 1 has a semi permanent glue pancake inside. Wouldn't trade them for anything , they've been with me for 30+years , to many memories of jobs and carpenters now past on to that lumber yard in the sky where they'll be happily pulling splinters ! 😀

[@robertwassem7788]

I have a couple. I use black nylon thread. You can buy extra needles on Amazon. For heavy material and quick and emergency repairs, you can’t bet it.

[@RobertFireLionBlueHawkWinkler]

I've had a Speedy Stitch for years. They're great for sewing leather.

[@Bangalangs]

If I’m remembering correctly Tandy Leather used to include one of those tools in their deluxe beginner leatherwork kit/bucket. Has a weird spindle location, but still a handy thing at the work bench.

[@xankulsilverkin2116]

Actually have two of those myself. Got one hand me down from my Father and bought one myself for repairing tool bags and Carhartt clothing when I worked on the Alaskan Pipeline back in the early 80’s. Worked on everything I needed to repair for years. Great item to have for Bushcraft repairs.

[@Maintenance63]

Yes they are quite handy. I use mine at least once a month. I work in a rugged outdoor environment. Canvas tent, denim jacket, pants, etc...

[@jackvoss5841]

Like you, mine has been languishing in a drawer for . . . . . . aye god, Dan, it is almost as old as you! Courtesy of Half Vast Flying

[@scubadudefrommaine]

I never understood how to properly use one until now. Thanks Dude.

[@MasterYoist]

I made a small-size sewing awl similar to this that fits in my EDC Altoids. I've used it mainly when my family is out and about and a shoe comes apart. The shoe repair only takes a couple minutes and we're all walking again as if nothing happened. Great tool for an EDC. Nice video. Thanks for posting.

[@rogueraven7603]

They are a great tool for leather projects and I’m glad to see them still around.

[@rcompton]

I have a few of these I used for leather, tent repair and heavy material. I have problems working with needles as I have gotten older. Great tool when needed.

[@epenaloza52]

Just finish HANDSOWING my survival hot tent will be trying it for the first time on March 3-7 over in Yosemite. weather calls for 3 days of snow

[@trackerjacker0013]

I’ve got one! They’re actually pretty handy. Great for the woods, but I keep one in the truck for any situation. I’ve fixed my kids stuff, I’ve also stitched up my own equipment. It’s that tool in the box you don’t think about, but are thankful when you pull it out every five years or so.😅 Ever consider showing the group basic net making, just to keep with knots an stitchin’

[@trackerjacker0013]

If this is Dan. Name the greatest Mt Man Film ever made stateside. I will only accept one right answer. Yer not coal cracker, or answer wrong, it’s on. Thoughts?

[@tankbennett7]

Kudos on the history! I never saw one. Yay to grandpa for having it

[@anthonydolezal6627]

Thanks for this! Something I've not considered. Keep Smilin!!!!

[@williamirelan9332]

To keep from rethreading the needle each time when you are ready to tie off ,push the awl through make your loop and instead of putting your thread in the loop insert a marlin spike (a nail or toggle) and when you withdraw the awl you can pull a loop as long as you need to tie off and cut the loop in the center. When you withdraw the thread the thread is still through the eye and you can start the next line of stitches.

[@ronstoner1823]

I started doing leatherwork back in the mid 70s but didn't aquire one of these until after I graduated highschool in the early 80s. They are handy.

[@earlshaner4441]

Good afternoon from Syracuse NY USA brother

[@Sam-iw6te]

I have one of these, used it for leathercrafting and definitely want it in my survival bag. It doesn't seem all that helpful but losing a needles sucks, and this just takes that away. Also has all of the components together, so it's like it's own sewing kit

[@GoBart454]

I've had numerous speedy stitches for over 45 years. LOVE THIS TOOL. I use 50 through 100 pound braided fishing line. Super strong and very thin makes it super easy to stitch with.

[@sharzadgabbai4408]

I packed mules. If you have the misfortune of a wreck these are invaluable for leather and canvas. One more item to upset ultralight hikers on the trail as you cook peach cobbler in the Dutch oven.

[@MrSjGibbs]

There is a groove in the collet part of the chuck through the threads that the thread goes in under the collar. Align the groove in the needle with this and it’s all neat. Groovy.

[@nickcasolino8903]

Dean, After you passed it around the stud, the thread should pass under the cap. You'll see that that the screw needle holder is grooved so that the thread pass it there and at the grooved needle and through the needle eye. At the end, you would screw the cap on.

[@DroneovrCB]

Another Excellent Video Dan! I have one of these but han't used it as it came with no instructions. Now I can start my projects.Thank you!

[@BUZZKILLJRJR]

I love my speedy stich I've made multiple knife sheaths from it repaired gear and repaired other knife sheets and made all kinds of stuff, also the thread 🧵 is made to go up through the neck, under the collar/chuck, then up though the needle.

[@stevenholland8167]

Awesome sauce! Another tool for my bushcraft toolbox 🧰! Thanks for the instruction video once again...out of the park home-run for Coalcracker!👍🏻

[@seamorebuttz]

Best instructions so far. Loved it.

[@atruefreethinker1944]

I use mine for webbing sewing. My dog's harness repair. My dog's collar repair. My webbing for my truck however I need it. Improv sewing for leather. great for button re attaching.

[@stuffbywoody5497]

I use one of these every other week for making leather goods. The advantage of the two needle system is that if one thread breaks, you still have one thread holding on, but with the speedy awl, if the thread breaks then the whole thing can come undone.

[@johndevoist8129]

I got a speedy stitch but wasn’t sure how to use it. Thanks for the demonstration!

[@cheserex]

I use one all the time to repair my leather moccasin slippers after my dogs find them and have a chew. They are now mostly held together that way. You mentioned thread, but the best thread is a thick beeswax coated one- pretty stiff but it sure does hold!

[@PocketKnivesBlog]

Just last weekend, I picked this up at an estae sale wondering....what in the world is this thing. I had no clue until I saw your image of you holding it in your vid. Thank you soooo much!!

[@rosemaryblock7751]

I made my first holster with a speedy stitcher. Two points - one, the thread goes UNDER the collet collar, up the needle groove to the eye. Two, shorter stitches work better than long ones, esp. in fabric. A stitching wheel helps keep stitches even on leather projects, but works well on webbing repairs on packs and harness as well. Hell, Ive seen it used to stitch bad barbed wire cuts on horses! ( LOTS of antseptic, and tie that critter down!!)

[@teddahrable]

Nice words, thank you. Just to add ... the stitching wheel is great for when you're at home, everyone wants nice, even stitches to make their work look like it had some thought and care put into it, but a stitching wheel isn't exactly a sensible "bushcraft" carry. Try this next time ... use a pen and put three marks on the forefinger of your non-dominant hand. Put the marks at the exact distance you want your stitch length to be. Now, just line up the inside marks with your last two stitches, and the third mark tells you where your next stitch should go. I like 3/16" (or 5mm) for most things.

[@stefanocappella9612]

I love mine for field repairs 🇨🇦

[@mantia39]

Thank you! I've had two of these rolling around the house for years,and never knew how to use one,and never met anyone else that did!

[@bjet80s45]

I was today years old when I figured out what the hell this tool was. I have one that I inherited from my grandfather. Time to get it out and start practicing! Awesome video.

[@TheJacov]

One minor point here. The speedy stich does a lock stich. The two needle method however is typically used to make what is called a saddle stich, which is not the same thing. The lock stich is actually a knot tied in each stich, whereas a saddle stich merely has the threads crossing each other, not forming a knot. Obviously the lock stich is more secure which may be a factor to consider. The application will determine which one you want to use. Just YFI.😁!

[@ldn0224]

I have two tandy ones. I have repaired and made many things. They are awesome for making leather stuff like knife sheaths and repairing knife sheath stitching.

[@HickSquatch]

Very cool!!! I have my grandfather's stich awl that looks just like that one!! No instructions sheet with mine though :) I have a newer one I bought myself too, then I got this old one and it is SO much better quality!! Excellent tool!

[@jwmmitch]

Oh man! I've been working a small project sewing by hand (for the first time) and one of those speedy stitch aws would really help

[@shirleychase1033]

Thank you. I've got one of those. Never usedit, but I do have an old tent canopy that needs restitching. Now I know how to do it.

[@freddyoutdoors]

Omg where has this been in my life off too look for one now thanks bro

[@Barracuda6USA]

An easy way to get the thread through the bottom of the handle is to use the needle itself. Unscrew the cap and take the needle out, then remove the bobbin cap and bobbin. Place the needle into the handle from the outside and the needle will appear from the bottom of the handle. Run the thread through the eye of the needle and pull the needle back out. Replace the bobbin and cap, then set the needle and tighten the collar. Someone repaired my moccasin with this and I've had one ever since. Great video, keep up the good work!

[@endurowex5790]

Nice explaination, it makes me realize my swiss knife has this feature on it !

[@magicg8112]

One thing that is helpful is if you can put a knot in the end of the thread you pulled through. It makes it easier to pick up the thread if your fingers are cold.

[@sdsi68]

Thanks for this video, I've always wondered about how that speedy stitch works 😃😁🤙🤙🤙

[@fredsmythe4731]

Many years with the speedy stich, it was intuitive for me. Kudos for the tutorial

[@TheWonderwy]

I inherited one from my dad. It looks just like yours! Still has extra needles and waxed thread and instructions.

[@erolkavlakverizon6112]

Thank you Dan, I never knew how to sew with that awl. Now I do

[@chuk11011]

On that model theres a groove under the tension nail, take threaded collet off, run line once around nail, into groove, thru threads and collet, and line lays along groove in frontside of needle

[@dinas7210]

Badass! As are all your vids, thanks again!!! "Now I know!!!"

[@clintonroushff7068]

Thanks Dan. Always something useful

[@SpamMusubi308]

Had one for years, used for repairs to backpacks canvas tents leather projects found some heavy sewing machine needles about 1/3 the diameter of the original factory needles that work with dental floss

[@johnwyman5939]

Totally OUTSTANDING Job on video !! Never knew how too use a speedy stich and now I do !!! Nicely done on video!! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🪓🔪👍👍

[@motrock93b]

Knowing how to use one of these correctly gives great insight into the proper use of awls with holes commonly found on Swiss Army Knives and other multi-tools. I've successfully repaired heavy materials with both. Nice instructional video. 👍

[@chuk11011]

I got mine from a sears in 1984, have made many holsters, couple of satchels, even a pair of nova door panels, bankline works good in it, cheap plentiful line

[@asmith7876]

Oh hell, I NEVER thought of using bank line in it! Genius!

[@charlesparr1611]

It's a bit difficult to describe how to do it, but you can use two of these stitching awls with two threads and put a reef knot inside each stitch hole. This means that any broken stitch will isolate it's damage, maybe the next stitch will loosen, but probably not. I've used it a lot in leatherwork and in making things that absolutely must not fail just because the thread gets worn.

[@robertcole9391]

I was always curious about this gadget. Thanks for the upload!

[@barnaclebill1615]

Ok Dan… I was absolutely thrilled to see u reviewing this. I was literally just at my local REI and takin a look at it. I’ll admittedly say, I was rather lost as far as proper usage. I just may go pick one up. Yet I’m still up in the air with my old sailors leather palm, needles & sisal twine. Great video! 😁👍👍🇺🇸

[@fhghthdjsfddhuoas]

Got one the other day and fixed the velcro size strap on the back..... now its a fitted cap and im stoked i can wear it again

[@smittyforge5127]

Thank you, you just reminded me how to do that correctly.

[@mux1978]

Thank you for this video. I bought one of these a few years ago, scratched my head and put it back in the box. She's coming back out!

[@carinhuber2570]

This too saves your fingers a lot of pain sewing heavy material (leather too) with just needles. Once it's pulled through to the back of your material threading the free end of the thread onto a blunt needle makes feeding it through the loop easier.

[@davesprague2445]

I have one but I cant figure it out, but after this vid I will be better off thanks Dan.

[@richjoebushcraft]

Handy tutorial! I picked one up a while back for a "just in case" scenario, but just haven't had to use it yet, so seeing a video to remind me how to use it is helpful.

[@AndrewVelonis]

Thank you for making this video, maybe I'll start using mine now.

[@ourtechwriter]

Thank you, I will need it often. You answered some questions I had. Maybe I can get better at it!

[@mikehenthorn1778]

I use one for leather work. It is good for emergency repairs in all kinds of items

[@nightrazer85]

it is a good tool even to this day, because it does not hurt as much for the hands when doing that a lot, and like you said, even more so when doing it through heavy materials like canvas, leather. My use would be for heavy tarps, belts, shoes and things for the horse.

[@Jimbo_Conn]

It's crazy man. Last time I looked your the only place selling those canvas stretcher bed type things... surprising to me I'd think there'd be a demand for those. .. I'm saving my pennies... hopefully be able to grab one in the future if you still got em.

[@peterott9162]

That was nice Dan! I've seen them before bit never knew how to use them. The next time I come across one I have to remember to pick one up.

[@wonderingBadger]

This is one tool I’ve always thought I should have one or three of, but never knew how to use, now I know. Time to pick one up. Thanks!

[@donalddicorcia2433]

You can make a serviceable version from a flea market pin vise and a craft store wooden ball.

[@fallenangelwi25]

That's so cool I've never seen it before!!!

[@radaraacf]

I have one of those awls great stuff I use it on leather and canvas, my dad has one for his sail repairs and taught me, price is excellent also

[@glorybound7599]

Hand sewing machine. Cool!

[@blackwillowbushcraft]

I always thought about getting a speedy stich over the years not sure why I never have. But after this video now I know and knowing is half the battle.( an old saying from GI Joe for ones that didn't know 😆) Definitely will come in handy at times,just wish you sold them at Coalcracker Bushcraft my favorite place to shop! Another awesome video as always brother 👍 💪

[@sherryh7485]

My grandfather and great uncle each had one. Both well used, with all the little "tools" in the bulb top.

[@KingTesticus]

I have something similar, it's awesome.

[@jamesmazzone7467]

Respectfully I enjoy Your show. Thank You

[@luckyhowe431]

It is a very handy tool. I use my own leather mostly

[@Seamus3051]

Have found that tying a small needle onto the tag end of the thread simplifies the pull through of the loop 🙂

[@SheepDoggy68]

Many old expedition repair/sewing kits used a mini/micro drill chuck with a cotter pin cross ways through the hole in the stem as a micro version of the Speedy Stitcher. Not as easy or comfortable to use, but very compact!

[@mlsknnr]

Good video Dan. I have been using one for years for leather repair.

[@jimcy1319]

How often do you need to fix your underpants.🤪

[@gerardmartyn7596]

Thanks, great video. I have several different speedy stickers. They work great. But a bit bulky. I prefer a jab needle, basically the same thing . No bobbin so is much slimmer and easy to pack. Great information 👍

[@gerardmartyn7596]

I hate auto correct 😒

[@yellowboot6629]

Nice ❣️ Thank'YOU