When hand stitching long runs I'm having tremendous difficulty keeping the threads from tangling, twisting and knotting up. Currently, I just finished stitching the perimeter of a belt but taming a ridiculously long thread was a huge challenge. As a result, I was forced to break out the old Stohlman book on stitching to learn how to properly cut and run a new thread. After that, the stitching went smooth until it started twisting and knotting up again. I got through the stitching with only having to change out the thread twice. I know it looks cleaner with only using 1 thread but does everyone really do that with very long stitching projects like belts and straps? If so...how does one manage all the issues that come with working with this much thread? How does one get the twisting action out of the thread once it starts? I tried waxing the thread and it didnt do much to mitigate the issue. I was using WUTA waxed cable polyester thread.
Dave,
I realize this is an OLD post and the information is long overdue, however I thought I would share what I do while I am hand stitching belts. I also run both edges of the belt at the same time. I struggle with my threading tightening and the belt becoming a bit misshapen when I stitch one side at a time.
There is a back stitch at both ends of the belt, the billet end being the least desirable as it is visible. You could avoid this simply by not cutting the thread a second time and running with the longer threads to produce a more professional outcome.
Seems that I also read in a fabric quilting discussion that the way the thread is held and rolled in between the index finger and thumb can impact how much the thread twists and turns. I would really need to rack my brain and think this through to come up with the correct description of what is right or not.
I am new to the forum and the leather craft masterclass and I am being challenged to re-think many of the ways I have been doing things. Everything I have learned has helped me progress to the next level of leather craft!
Cindy