In the realm of leatherworking, achieving a flawless saddle stitch is crucially important. The quality of your stitching can make or break the overall aesthetic of your leather creations. However, many beginners struggle to attain the desired level of precision in their stitches. Learning how to improve your saddle stitch is an endeavour that can set you apart from the competition and level up your craftsmanship.
How can a Better Punching Board Improve Your Saddle Stitch?
One key factor that often goes overlooked is the punching mat used during the stitching process. While a thin rubber mat may suffice initially, it can lead to inconsistencies in stitch appearance over time. Upgrading to a high-quality punching board, such as the OKA Punching Board, can significantly improve the uniformity and overall quality of your stitches.
I used one of these rubber mats for a long time. They are ok at first, but as they deteriorate from repeated use, they weaken. This causes your punches to sink deeper into the mat and causes the back side of whatever your punching to blow out. This means that the holes punched are different on the front and back. One of the keys to achieving a uniform saddle stitch is consistency. You want the holes to look the same, stitch the same way each time the needles pass through, pull the same direction and with the same amount of force, etc. When your holes are different front to back, you get an inconsistent look.
The choice between rubber Amazon mats and a specialized punching board is a critical one. While rubber mats may suffice temporarily, they can deteriorate over time and lead to subpar stitching results. In contrast, the OKA board offers superior durability and precision, ensuring consistent stitch quality with every project. If you do opt for the rubber mats, I’d recommend getting a new one fairly regularly.
Upgrading your Stitching Punch/Chisel/Irons
When starting out in leatherworking, it’s common for saddle stitches to appear uneven or imperfect. While practice certainly plays a crucial role in refining stitching technique, the tools used also have a significant impact on the final result. Investing in a superior stitching punch or chisel can make a world of difference, particularly if you initially started with lower quality tools.
New leather workers often get those cheap diamond punches off of Amazon (I did too). These things do the trick and help you learn, but they are problematic in several ways, too. Upgrading to a Sinabroks Stitching Punch proved to be one of the best upgrades I’ve made. They’re just easier to work with and the results are amazing.
Ultimately, achieving mastery in saddle stitching requires a combination of skill, practice, and the right tools. By prioritizing quality equipment and attention to detail, you can elevate your leather craft to new heights and produce stunning creations that stand the test of time.