Fixing a belt for a MOS

[ChubRock]

Trying to be creative and frugal at the same time I decided to make my own sporran belt. I bought a 60" nice black leather dog leash and a basic buckle. I have carefully used an xacto knife to cut out the threads from the leash hardware. I now am using one of the existing fold over ends to put the buckle on. How can I sew the leather back together?

I wonder if maybe with a basic needle and strong thread I can try to re-use the same holes that appear to be machine made from the leash maker. If not, is there a basic tool that I can use? Trying to be frugal, I don't want to spend much if anything to make it happen. Gorilla Glue? Snaps? Rivets?

Your advice please.

[turpin]

If you have leather punch you can use the smallest size to make holes where you need them. Otherwise I am a fan of the four-tined punch sold by many leather shops, such as Tandy Leather Factory. It's great for making evenly spaced holes.

[WClarkB]

I think a good investment might also be a sewing awl

[Standard]

A good inexpensive sewing awl with waxed thread is the only way to go. Can pick one up pretty cheap at Walmart, etc. They usuallycome with black or sometimes white thread.

:ootd:

[longhuntr74]

You can use a dremel tool or cordless drill to remake holes...I also Use an old style ice pick or an awl to make holes in my leatherwork. Make sure you share some pics...I plan to do the exact same thing when I get back to the states.

[dfmacliam]

I have used a very small drill bit to make my holes in thick leather.. I mark them out by a ruler.. and either use a sewing awl or a larger size needle, with a thick waxed thread. These items are usually found in the sewing section at your local Walmart.

Another option is going to a local saddlemaker or cobbler, who could sew up the leather for you, for a small price..

one other thought... use the two piece rivets available at Tandy or the Leather Factory.. a simple single hole, and proper setting, will make a nice clean, and strong connection.. just match the rivet to the metal of the clips you are using.. brass for brass.. nickel for the silver.

[MacCathmhaoil]

If it is a strong white thread you need for sewing, I often use waxed dental floss. Ideal for leather work, strong and the waxing makes it very easy to use. It will work with almost any regular sewing needle as well.

[Pleater]

If your leather has already got the holes in then you can match them up and sew through them. Making new holes can weaken the leather and cause it to separate along the row of perforations.

If you need to match the second side to the first you can place them one over the other and put a leather needle through the hole - or use a very slender drill - to mark the surface, and then you can make the holes all the way through.

Anne the Pleater :ootd:

[Chas]

I have an old fork with 3 of the tines removed. It is very good for opening up holes that are too small. It also has a good handle, so gives a good grip when a bit of leverage is needed. And above all it was cheap.

Regards

Chas

[Ozark Ridge Rider]

A very good light sewing awl can be made from a heavy sewing machine needle. Drill a hole slightly smaller than the shank of the needle in a piece of 3/4 dowel or other suitable piece of wood. Either use existing holes or make new ones. I've sewn lots of leather with one of these, and waxed dental floss is good. If you need black, use braided nylon fishing line (not monofilament) run over a candle to wax it.