A few weeks ago, I was heading to BERNINA University and I always think I need a new bag before any stitching related jaunt. The reality is I would never actually sew anything for myself without these last minute crazy ideas, so it’s a good thing! I eyed my leather stash and jumped in!
Most of my pieces were in the large scrap range, but I did have a large half hide that I bought on the cheap because it had holes in it. I cut large rectangles from that and started stitching them together. I used 40wt Aurifil and was pleased with the accent look.
For the actual stitching, the BERNINA Roller Foot #51 was a game changer. It glides over the leather. This experience made owning this foot completely worth it!
I also used my Dritz rivet kit and Dritz rivets. They are so easy and polished looking. Although a major lesson was learned when I made a practice rivet and discovered there are twenty-four in a package and I needed twenty-four. Thank you Joann for being open at 8:55pm.
I added a Fauxberty (pretty floral lawn fabric made to look like Liberty, but at 1/4 the price) pocket and attached with the rivets. Bunny’s is my favorite Fauxberty dealer!
It was a series of speed bumps but I learned a lot about leather stitching. And even more about what not to do. I’ll be teaching a Learning to Sew with Leather class at Sew Original on September 20 if you’re local and interested. We are starting smaller with a little wallet;)
Special thanks to my amazing friend Ginny for modeling the tote. You won’t find a better stitching bud (or human) than her!
If you have a leather stash, just do it. I’ve been buying upholstery leftovers for years and using leather as an accent. This was my first full leather adventure. I’m thrilled with results! And I did finish in time to take it on my trip:)
xx LC
