One Day Course - Saddle Stitch
By Charlie Trevor
Saddle Stitch has fascinated me for my whole career. Learning how to saddle stitch is ostensibly simple, and yet it takes more than a lifetime to perfect. However good you are, there are new variations to learn or to invent and each day if you want to produce your best work you have to try. This fascinates and frustrates in turn. Let me teach you the variations and techniques Ive learned and developed for a multitude of different scenarios and products.
Course Structure
The one day Saddle Stitch course is a group course with a maximum of three like minded participants taught in my workshop, giving plenty of individual attention. The day is 9-5 with approx half an hour for lunch. The course will cover
- Tools - Pricking irons, appropriate SPI and thread thickness
- Awls - sizing, types, etc
- Thread - Linen, manmade etc
- Clams - Differing types
- Standard saddle stitch, thicker leathers
- Standard saddle stitch in thinner leathers
- Casting/not casting
- Reverse pricking
- Inverse pricking
- Finishing a stitch line
Leather for a project suitable for your level of experience is included in the course. You are not expected to bring tools but you are very welcome to do so should you wish and we can compare and contrast with the tools in the workshop and the different results you might get from different tool styles etc. We can also discuss any tool questions you have. Likewise you are welcome to bring leather and hardware of your own if you want. Assuming there is time in the day general leatherwork, tool and technique discussion is also welcomed and very much part of the day.
Prerequisites
This course is suitable for the beginner through to the professional, though you wouldn’t cover the more advanced topics as a beginner. Journeyman or experienced/professional leatherworkers are welcome and there are specific aspects of the course (casting, reverse and inverse pricking for eg) for the more experienced. With a small number of participants each person can work at their own level with plenty of input from me and each will take new skills away from the day. I have made literally millions of stitches over the years, and I look forward to passing on what I have learned. Get in touch if you want to talk through the details or ask any questions about content.
Location
The course is at my workshop at;
Westholme Farm
Winston,
Darlington,
County Durham,
DL2 3QN
Please park on the side of the road in the parking spaces. If you go to the farm you have gone too far! If you are here for several days and need help with accommodation Im happy to advise.