How to Cut, Shape & Use Leather Lace for Professional Results
Mac-Lace Leather is a reputable Australian supplier providing high-quality leathercraft tools, materials and accessories for crafters of all skill levels. Leather lace, a durable material, can be used for a wide range of projects and can add value to all your projects. For information on getting started with the right tools and materials, feel free to check out our wide variety available at Mac-Lace Leather, or feel free to contact us for professional advice.
Choosing the Right Leather Lace
Choosing the correct type of leather lace will help to produce the right kind of finish on your work. Leather lace differs greatly in terms of strength, flexibility and the final finish. Kangaroo lace has incredible strength and consistency, and, as the finest material of its kind, is the superior choice for high-quality, performance leather lacing. Cowhide lace, the most used type of leather lace, offers a balance of strength and affordability, whereas suede lace is suitable for decorative work due to its softer texture. Different widths and thicknesses of lace can also be used to create various finishes. Ensuring that your leather lace fits your chosen leathercraft projects will contribute to a better-quality finished product.
Cutting, Shaping and Preparing Lace
The first thing to consider is preparing your leather lace. By carefully cutting the lace an even width and consistency will be achieved throughout the product, a task that can be easily carried out with a quality leather cutter.
Secondly, bevelling the edges of the leather lace will allow the material to glide through holes without snags and help to produce a cleaner-looking finish. Applying a leather conditioner to the leather lace can help maintain its suppleness and prevent cracking. Gentle stretching of the leather lace before starting your project will help to prevent breakages.
Using Leather Lace in Projects
Leather lacing can be utilised in various projects ranging from structural stitching to decorative edgings, including different lacing styles such as double-loop lacing, whipstitch or various woven finishes. Maintaining a consistent tension when using your leather lace throughout is crucial for a neat finish, a professional look and durability. Always secure the ends of your leather lace appropriately, not too loose nor too tightly, to avoid them coming loose at any stage of your projects or after completion. When you have practised this skill of leather lacing, it can become a valuable technique to contribute to your leathercraft work, which you will use time and time again.
Professional Leather Lace Finishing
Using the right kind of leather lace and preparing it well will result in strong, clean and professional finishes on every single one of your projects, including wallets, bags, belts, and other leathercraft products. Ensuring you are using the correct tool and technique will improve both the durability and appearance of any leathercraft item.
Discover a full range of high-quality leather lace, leather cutter tools, and conditioning products at Mac-Lace Leather, and contact us for professional advice.