You can Hand Stitch Leather (Easily)!

How to Hand Stitch Leather! (With Bonus Tips and Tricks!)
In this video, I show you the basics of hand stitching leather (“Saddle stitching”). For the sake of any brevity I could find, this video is by no means all inclusive.
Topics not included here are:
* Use of an awl - That topic deserves its own video.
* Overstitch wheel - I do not use an overstitch wheel for marking stitch holes because I use multiple teeth chisels that punch through the leather. The overstitch wheel has somewhat fallen out of favor and use over the last few decades. Particularly due to the ease of creating straighter stitch lines with chisels.
* Stitch groover - Same as overstitch wheel.
* Mention of “Holes” instead of slits - Many crafters use holes instead of slits in their leather items. I do not prefer this method simply because it “removes leather” (the hole plugs). I prefer to keep all leather intact whenever possible.
* Hammering stitches after stitching is done - Again, this is something I prefer not to do for a number of reasons. Mainly due to aesthetics. I prefer how the Tiger thread appears as it lays. I also like the items to naturally do whatever they will in the wild.
:-:-:-:
GRAPHIC WARNING! If you’re squeamish, skip this section!
I’m often asked about the scar on my left hand (back of thumb and hand). Seen clearly in the thumbnail photo and throughout this video.
This is a great time to reveal its origins. When I was making my second stitching pony (the first with foot pedals shown in this video), I had an accident with the mitre saw, and I nearly murdered my left thumb. The saw blade grabbed the wood I was holding (Cherry limb), yanking it and my hand toward the spinning teeth. The saw blade then sank down through my hand and cut a valley down the rear of the thumb bone, just before I snatched it back and out of the saw.
That little mishap required emergency hand surgery, obviously. Oddly, the pony was already complete at the time and I was adding a couple of cherry wood accents, purely for aesthetics.
Yep, I nearly chopped my thumb off trying to make my stitching pony look “good”.
Nevertheless, I never did add any aesthetic accents to that stitching pony. It was used “as is” thereafter.
:-:-:-:
Shop Anvil:
zeebeeleather.com/tool-shop/s...
Stitching chisels:
amzn.to/3wXNoO4
Needles:
amzn.to/3qlQhWG
Mauls (Barry King):
amzn.to/3brqvZf
Ritza Tiger Thread, 1.0 mm:
amzn.to/2SF4i15
Mascon Forge Instagram page:
/ mascon_forge
Video - “Bump Jigs - Change Your Leather Crafting Forever!”:
• 11 Simple Tricks That ...
Kevin lee (large chisels):
/ kevinlee4426
Romanov pony:
/ romanovtool
:-:-:-:
Direct links to tools, gear and “stuff”:
Direct to Amazon storefront - www.amazon.com/shop/masconlea...
Or:
Cordless Dremel - amzn.to/2UARMRe
Yellow rulers (my favorite!) - amzn.to/2xlXJtz
Hand clamps (stitching) - amzn.to/2Ufp2hX
Glue Pot - amzn.to/2wdqJD9
Leather Glue (Barge) - amzn.to/37talvb
Leather Glue thinner (Barge) - amzn.to/2UTBrJi
Thread (Ritza Tiger, 1.0 mm) - amzn.to/2SF4i15
Knife - amzn.to/2SNmx4v
Knife (2) - amzn.to/2SwZWui
Stitching Needles (John James) - amzn.to/38nIRZ3
Corner punches (Semi-arc) - amzn.to/3bveP7G
Rivet Nippers (Knipex) - amzn.to/2Siykc1
Hole Punch (Herm Sprenger) - amzn.to/39qYOhh
Mauls (Barry King) - amzn.to/3brqvZf
Pony Clamp (Pony Jorgenson) - amzn.to/37lAGvd
Leather Dye (Feibings) - amzn.to/39sKd4T
Cutting mats (Alvin) - amzn.to/2UVGMjo
Professional scissors - amzn.to/385H0XP
(Disclaimer: Some of the items here are Amazon affiliate links, which means if you purchase an item with the provided links, I get a small commission of the sale, at no added cost to you, which helps to keep this channel up and running. Thanks for the support!)
If you have a question about any tools or supplies not listed here, please leave a comment below and I’ll do my best to direct you accordingly.
:-:-:-:
Follow me:
Instagram:
/ masconleather
Facebook:
/ masconleather
Website:
www.masconleather.com/
:-:-:-:
If you have any questions, please post them directly below in the comments. Yes, I read them all and reply (as long I see them).
Foreign (not English) language comments: KZbin still won’t allow “copy and paste” on comments, therefore, any comments written in any foreign language (not English), if I can’t translate, I may request a translation.
:-:-:-:
For sponsorship information, please contact me directly.
Business inquiries ONLY:
[e-mail]
---
Mascon Leather

[@MasconLeather]

Here are 11 tricks that will change your leather crafting forever! - kzbin.info/www/bejne/pX_ZiZKbo62hjpI

[@jacelittleton6620]

What is the burnishing agent you use

[@matnoeslovo]

Приветствую тебя друг ,ты очень крутые вещи делаешь и кожи и обьясняешь очень хорошо ,Я не знаю английский язык и все равно понимаю что и как надо делать ,Я тоже учусь шить всякие вещи из кожи и многому научился у тебя ,спасибо тебе ! Хотелось бы чтоб у меня был друг на другом конце земного шара ,ты будешь моим другом ? Меня зовут Николай, живу Я в городе Москва и Я русский, давай дружить брат!🤝

[@capstevepoarch]

Beautiful. So many KZbin 'experts' throw two reciprocating running stitches and pretend that it was a saddle stitch. Nice to see someone DOING IT RIGHT. A thing of beauty is a joy forever.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for that!! And thanks for watching!

[@johnmworley]

I've watched a dozen people try to explain and show how to stitch, you nailed it!

[@MasconLeather]

Awe !! Thank you for that!

[@WyrmhideLeather]

This is my new favorite how to saddle stitch video. The clarity of the video is amazing and the overhead view makes it so clear. Thanks, will definitely pass this on!

[@MasconLeather]

Thank you for that!! And thanks for watching!!

[@Outsider46n2]

@@MasconLeatherI have only just started watching tutorial videos a few days ago and after watching several other much higher profile channels I was still none the wiser how to actually stitch properly. Your overhead cam and the closeness of the shot was exactly what I needed, thank you! ✌🏼

[@elidblfap2818]

That was the most informative hand stitching tutorials I’ve seen in a while

[@MasconLeather]

Aw! Thanks for that!

[@MurphyinKS]

WOWSA... I have been hand stitching for yrs....I GOT THE CLUE BUS TODAY... AWESOME.. I have made boots, bags, armor.... It now has the how and why... Again my thanks.. AJs Celtic Bear

[@MasconLeather]

Perfect!!! Thanks for that and thanks for watching!

[@For_the_love_of_mint]

With stiching… I can’t believe something so basic, makes my brain hurt… 🤪 Thx so much for this video! Practice practice practice!!! 👍🏼

[@mufassaism]

Hands down, best tutorial I’ve seen!!!! I’m new to the leather world and couldn’t be happier I found you 🕺 Thank you

[@MasconLeather]

Thank you for this !

[@patriciaingraldi4719]

Excellent demonstration. I've been unsure about the forming of those stitches but not anymore. Thank you so much

[@user-bh3ew6ii4g]

THIS is the video that I have been looking for! Thank you! What type of pricking iron, what sizing, how heavy for the mallet, what kind of thread, what size of thread? I have watched so many of these videos for people just starting sewing leather, and you are the only one who has answered these questions! Saves us a lot of time and money doing trial and error. I loved seeing your stitching pony progression. I much prefer the idea of making my own instead of buying.

[@moleather9038]

It may sound silly to some of the guys and girls that do this leatherwork well , but to us that are starting out watching good instructional stuff is brilliant , thank you 👍

[@MasconLeather]

Thank you for taking the time to comment and thanks for watching!

[@moleather9038]

I appreciate you taking the time to make these

[@tonyhudson8698]

EXCELLENT, especially the tips towards the latter part.. Cheers from NEW ZEALAND.. Thanks

[@MasconLeather]

Glad it was helpful!

[@natericketson5096]

Absolutely agree Nigel's video is the best stitching video! I frequently send this to folks when they want to understand hand stitching/saddle stitching!

[@MasconLeather]

Absolutely!! Nigel’s voice and accent are a far cry more soothing than mine too. 😆

[@user-hp5oh8sc9k]

Man, I have learned so much from you, feel like your a good friend I never met! Love your products, probably the only one I would carry other than my own. Thank you, and all the best!

[@nathanrainwater1657]

Love it man. You've explained the corners and solved a mystery. Thank you

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for watching!!

[@61pickgun]

As a guy that just started trying to learn to stitch, thank you. Perfect clarity.

[@MasconLeather]

Perfect! Thanks for that and thanks for watching!

[@andrewoperacz7427]

A fantastic how to video. Thanks so much for sharing such an in-depth how to.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks, Andrew!! And thanks for watching! Be sure to subscribe if you haven’t already!

[@edwardgensheimer6640]

Great teacher, you take the time visually and verbally. Most just say back stitch there you go. Your appreciated for someone just learning.

[@somefellern]

Thank you for all these excellent tips! I'll be using several of these from now on

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for watching!!

[@robbflint3022]

I've been watching your video's for a while and want to say thanks for the positivity and the experience you bring to the table. My mom has been a leathersmith since I was 4 and 54 now. But I've always looking for being better and learning more. Me and my wife have decided to slowly open a shop but both work jobs. Thanks for your tips it really helps her out.👍

[@MasconLeather]

Perfect!! I’m glad I can help!

[@romancingthestrand8242]

AMAZING video. You’re a FANTASTIC teacher. Straight to the point and shooting from the hip. Very clear explanations. I’m very new to leather work and super excited about it. I’m trying to buy all the right tools etc now . Thank you again. You rock brother 🤠

[@laura-leemurphyuta78]

THANK YOU!!! I was making a list going by other leather crafters recommendations and getting so frustrated and you have truly helped me. I’m just getting set up and so new to this. I appreciate you even going into detail about the thread!

[@MasconLeather]

You are so welcome!

[@jeremylambert9604]

That’s the first video I have seen on stitching where it finally clicked in my head. Thank you 👌🏼

[@MasconLeather]

Oh cool!!! That’s exactly what I was hoping. Over the years I’ve watched 100s. And I had to extrapolate bits and pieces from each and make it more concise. Along with the old Al Stohlman book too of course

[@rickbosley6246]

Those last four seconds of the video - every single project. Well done, and thanks!

[@MasconLeather]

😆 right !’b

[@tellis9697]

Wow! Out of all the videos I have watched yours is the first that I actually could see and understand what was going on. Thank you for posting!

[@MasconLeather]

🤘🤘

[@ussgear]

Great video! Thanks for sharing! Needle size and thread size matter so much! Especially depends on what you're making/stitching! I love a good set of John James needles in a 002 size and some Maine Thread Co .035 wax poly thread! I love to hand stitch some good quality leather together! Keep on having fun and enjoying the craft!

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks sir !!

[@marcclapton]

Another great tips video. Thank you!!

[@MasconLeather]

Thank you! And thanks for watching!!

[@Stang94Red]

I was always amazed in the detail of tips and tricks added into your videos before you even narrated them. Seeing a full on how to video here from you was executed flawlessly. Thank you for giving us a view into how you do it. The keep-it-easy way!

[@MasconLeather]

Awe !!! Thanks for that!!

[@mashooqhussain3021]

ئ

[@dooski01]

His leather tutorials are the best and fun to watch. I've learned alot from Mr. Shell

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks!!!

[@mikeguidry49]

First time ever watching leather working video, I want to start a new hobby now! Excellent explanation/instructions, I’ll be watching more, thanks.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks !!

[@Resolute900]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience, observations and passion. A well thought out presentation.

[@MasconLeather]

My pleasure!

[@jayc853]

A superb overview for us newbies. Thanks!

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks!

[@jffqnn]

I appreciate Artists like Yourself Who don't mind sharing Their Knowledge with newbies like myself!! Definitely going to check out the other individual you mentioned in this video. I just started working with Leather in order to create Gifts for Loved One's and I had No Idea how far someone could go in this area. Absolutely Amazing what I've seen people doing out there, Way above what I expected. Anyway, Thank You for taking the time to create this very informative and time saving video!! Sincerely J Q

[@mikestoning5536]

Love the point of consistency. Even if you've realized you've gone on about it "wrong", see the process through for a consistent finish.

[@MasconLeather]

Right?!?! 🤘

[@phibik]

the best video for stitching leather that I found, thanks

[@MasconLeather]

Wow, thank you!

[@lordbodford1]

Nice to have the master explain how its done. Very informative and interesting. Well done sir

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for that!!!

[@benrogers7071]

Outstanding video - best stitching video I've seen. Thank you!!!

[@MasconLeather]

Awe ! ! Thanks

[@mikesatawake2277]

This is the best how-to video I've seen. Thanks!

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for that and for watching! Be sure to subscribe if you haven’t already!

[@iamtheglass3744]

Well you’re a lotta fun! Thank You for sharing your experience with us 🪄🗝️✨💨

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks !

[@apvox]

This was so well done, I'm your fan now. Direct to the point and with a fun twist.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks !!

[@kcg3927]

As a beginner & using cheap tools... I have a new greater appreciation for the craft... Really appreciate your videos. 👍🏽👍🏽

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks !! And thanks for watching!!

[@polychronisrempoulakis3588]

Some great material here, many thanks for your effort! I surely learned something useful!

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks!! And thanks for watching!

[@donnahicks9618]

Thank you for a great video, I am planning on adding some leather to my jewelry making and this was just what I was looking for. Didn't even know how much I didn't know. So thank you again for such an informative video.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks!

[@aaronmelvin461]

Great video! One of the best that covers a lot of ground. Just subscribed, thank you.

[@ConorMakes]

Lots of useful tips n tricks. Thank you

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks and thanks for watching!!

[@oxmachines]

Man U are a really good teacher. I didn’t think I would ever get that stitch. But just like you said watch it again maybe something will click. And it did. Thank you bro👍🏻👍🏻

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for that!

[@mattrowe1037]

Liking the video to refer back to later when I start. Gotta grab some tools but I already have 4 rough sketches of wallets I want to make. I'm so excited, got some big ideas

[@curiousman1672]

Yep. Nigel's the man. Left handed, right hand priority........

[@evinfuilt]

Thank you, I also picked up my stitching from Armitage, but seeing all those angles helps immensely, and makes me feel great. Means I've been doing it right! Still shocked how easy you get the 10 prong chisel out of the leather. Always have an issue even with a 6 prong getting stuck.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for watching!! The bone folder (or deer bone shaped just right) helps a lot !

[@AG-ok7no]

I know this is from a couple years ago, but maybe someone will still see this. Regarding taking the pronged chisel out of the leather, I just saw a video where a guy had a little block of beeswax he would stick the prongs into before every punch or two, he said it makes it much easier to take out. I'm a total beginner and haven't tried it so I'm not sure.

[@suzanneparry8105]

Thanks for your tips, straight to the point much appreciated too!

[@Brioh4z4rd]

On point as always. Thank you for the tips, specifically on punching around corners (not square. I agree, looks bad) and T-Pockets. I’m very new to this and your videos are a huge help. Not only in techniques but in inspiration as well. Have you ever considered doing a tutorial on making patterns? Anyway, thanks again!

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks!!!! I have “considered” a pattern video, because I love design more than leather. Lol. But I don’t share nor sell my designs yet

[@joshuapoche5137]

I loved this video. It came out great

[@MasconLeather]

Thank you for that, Joshua!

[@fr3heart]

This is a perfect introduction, thank you.

[@MasconLeather]

You're very welcome!

[@joshlindsay4408]

I just started leather work and I have really been enjoying your videos. The work you do is incredible. Really helpful tips and tricks. Too bad leather is astronomically expensive for just a side hobby that I am still practicing on. I really need to learn to use a pattern rather than just going off what i think is right by measurements.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for watching!!

[@ScubaGuy]

Fantastic video so much info and some great tips and tricks . I’m just getting into leather work . Really appreciate this video and your channel

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for that! And thanks for watching!!

[@henrycordoba3918]

Excelente video . Thank you so much for your patience.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for watching!

[@Majorrogerragland48]

OUTSTANDING !

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks !!!

[@mrezaazfard38]

Hi. That is great. I am from Iran.i used to live in Kansas, coffyvill. Your explanation is very clear and useful. The first step to learn about how to work with leader. Thank you very much.

[@MasconLeather]

Glad it was helpful!

[@DustinSmithFL]

Just what I needed!

[@josephgodfrey9123]

I am as new to this as in just hoping to learn and get started. So I will probably be looking at your videos several time's. You make it look easy . I'll work on doing it right first.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks !!

[@LKS-1976]

This helps immensely. I'm getting into leather work. This info is what I needed. Cheers brother.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for watching!! Be sure to subscribe if you haven’t already!

[@LKS-1976]

@@MasconLeather already have, months ago

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks !!!

[@Shadow0fd3ath24]

ive quickly realized its way easier than it looks and 1 cheap bulk leather scarp box off ebay, 4 chisel punches, chinese mini stitching pony, 1 awl, a ruler and a divider, 1 good hammer like you showed, and 3 sizes of a couple needles is all it takes to do most leather work!

[@MasconLeather]

Great tip!

[@musicandcoffee2853]

Practical video. Excellent work my friend!

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks!

[@musicandcoffee2853]

@@MasconLeather yes sir 👍🏼

[@vintage6346]

That was so good, SO good. I bought some punches but was such a failure at punching that I bought a (small) number 4 needle for my stitching awl, drew a straight line front and back, and just sewed it that way. It was a leather vest and I marked and sewed the seam on the "inside". It looks decent. But I wondered what I would now do with those two sets of punches I'd purchased. Great video. You've helped me a lot.

[@MasconLeather]

Thank you for that!

[@bluejeans8001]

Thanks for sharing your tips & tricks.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for watching!!

[@stevemalone2010]

Enjoyable to watch, thanks.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks, Steve! And thanks for watching! Be sure to subscribe if you haven’t already!

[@nitawilkinson]

I'm learning. Thank you for taking the time to make this video and posting it. ¥

[@MasconLeather]

Glad it was helpful!

[@x974175]

Great video. Thanks for sharing what you know.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for watching!

[@ericaaberg]

Thanx for the encouragement. I am getting very frustrated with my stiching. Going to go back at it.

[@MasconLeather]

Perfect!!!

[@jamescline8055]

Great video! Finally makes sense.

[@MasconLeather]

Perfect!!! Thanks for watching!

[@usernamemykel]

I don't know why more southern guys than northern guys engage in leathercraft (accents and phrases are the giveaways), but of all of them, I just found the newest "best" in my opinion. And, I love that, he works part-time as a ventriloquist, who works with an invisible dog.

[@filipehatori8979]

Amazing explanation!

[@sluggo2014]

This is gonna be good Yep, good one. Thanks for sharing.

[@MasconLeather]

👍

[@eddinsmore]

Very good leather work and looks fun. Very good advise at end of video. Trying to learn leather work. Was forced to retire.

[@rolfhogfeldt7645]

Very informative. But moreso, comfortable to watch. Thanks 👍

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for that!

[@rockrangel]

Thank you for this video! I have some vinyl that has been calling my name, and I know nothing about sewing vinyl, and everything I've looked at recommends leather tools for vinyl!

[@MasconLeather]

Give it a shot !

[@mikedecherd8666]

Thanks for sharing, I would love to see how you finish your edges, they are amazing.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks!!

[@delerbal1675]

Awesome tutorial. Liked and subscribed!

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for the sub!

[@joliski]

Great video thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks and thanks for watching!!

[@vardieyal]

Great Advices for hand stiching. Thanks

[@MasconLeather]

Glad it was helpful!

[@johnnylgulledge6899]

Excellent tips, thank you!

[@MasconLeather]

Thank you for that! And thanks for watching!

[@gergemall]

It looks beautiful

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks !!

[@robertnordeen1485]

If nothing else , I learned how to make corner holes. Go down in size not up. Good video. Looks like fun with lots of ideas. I'll have to try the 2 needle thing myself thats the first ive ever seen that. The closest leather work that Ive done today is drill a hole in a belt.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks !

[@unclerojelio6320]

You are the This Old Tony of leather working.

[@MasconLeather]

😆 thanks, I think

[@aolesnevich]

Love the bottle on the stool!

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks!!

[@haroldwmustainjr.5885]

Thx for teaching us your tricks

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks for that and thanks for watching!

[@stephengarrett8076]

Outstanding!!!

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks !

[@ricardoquiterio741]

Great class!

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks, Ricardo!

[@betford2]

This is such a great video, and you have such a pleasant voice.

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks !!!

[@dubi01]

really great video! way to go!

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks!!

[@timh604]

Simply Awesome!

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks!!!

[@sunriseleatherco.6587]

Great tutorial man ... you're easy to listen to!

[@MasconLeather]

Thanks!!! My wife might Argue the “easy to listen to “ part. 😆

[@sunriseleatherco.6587]

@@MasconLeather 🤣

[@chuckbraden2138]

Thank you for the tutorial. Very informative

[@MasconLeather]

You are welcome!

[@AungWinHtutGH]

Thank you so much, especially for the last word! Thank you again Sir!

[@MasconLeather]

You are very welcome

[@eddinsmore]

Very good tip and advise at the end. I'm new this was forced to retire taking up leather hobby. Hope to maybe make some extra money eventually.

[@anwarulhaqqureshi]

He has the magical hands, he is like the bruce lee of leather working and his voice is so bassy.. i can watch his videos for thousand years without being bored..

[@MasconLeather]

😆 thank you for that! I only wish I was as talented as Bruce Lee !!

[@anwarulhaqqureshi]

@@MasconLeather u r in leather work bro, u have magical hands, u r using the tools that no one cant, specially those brass tools without measuring is real magic, now a days i have noticed that most of the learher working men are ignoring the use of many tools but by watching ur videos tools are very important, it makes the work easier, but the skill to use them is too necessary, thats why many leather workers cant use them.

[@MasconLeather]

Thank you for that!! I appreciate it!

[@ickocer]

perfect guide. thanks

[@MasconLeather]

Thank you!!

[@perrydoerr8668]

Well so far there are 2 people who don’t know their right from their left. Ya see the thumbs up is on the left. The thumbs down is on the right. I know we all make STUPID mistakes now and then so I’m gonna give them the benefit of the doubt. Great job. Just starting to stitch. Perfect timing. 👍👍

[@MasconLeather]

😆 thanks, perry!

[@perrydoerr8668]

@@MasconLeather You are very welcome.

[@EdwinDekker71]

Awesome video, thanks

[@MasconLeather]

Thank you!

[@imortaldraco2002]

I loved this

[@MasconLeather]

Awe!! Thank you!!!