Friday, May 25, 2007

Tips for making moccasins

After you have selected a moccasin pattern, there are a few tips to make the process easier.
  1. The working surface must be flat and secure. Placing a cutting board or a rubber mat under the pattern will prevent tools becoming dull as well as protecting the working surface.
  2. Use metal measuring tools which can also be used as a straight edge when cutting leather.
  3. Mark the pattern on the leather using a felt tip pen or dark lead pencil.
  4. Choose a leather that is free of oil, dirt and other residues. This will keep your pattern clean as well making the leather easier to work.
  5. When cutting the leather , use a leather shears or a sharp razor knife. Think safety when cutting.
  6. For sewing pieces together, use leather craft sewing needles. For thread, a waxed linen thread or artificial sinew(will not stretch) is perhaps the best for holding the leather together.
  7. When punching holes in the moccasin leather, use a stitching awl. Remember safety first.

Hopefully these few tips will make your chore easier. Good luck.

Quote of the day:

"No one appreciates the very special genius of your conversations as a dog does."--Christopher Morley

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