Uploaded April 2021 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
The saddle stitching technique—also known as hand stitching or two-needle stitching—is time-consuming but ends up stronger than a machine stitch. If a thread is cut on one side of a saddle stitch, but the other side remains intact, the overall stitch will continue to retain its integrity. Whereas in a machine stitch, if one side of a stitch is broken the entire length of the stitch will be compromised and eventually separate. While saddle stitching is more time-consuming many find it to be enjoyable—and even quite calming—once mastered.
For this skill we will be referencing the steps in the book, "Lacing & Stitching," plus using the following tools:
• (2) Needles
• Lightly Waxed Poly Thread
• TandyPro® Stitching Groover
• TandyPro® Pricking Iron
• TandyPro® Awl
• Stitching Pony
Practice makes perfect! Similar to many other leathercraft skills, this may take time to master and might not be perfect on the first try. Keep practicing and the saddle stitch process will quickly become second nature!
Learn more: tandyleather.com/blogs/projects/tandy-skills-saddle-stitching
The saddle stitching technique—also known as hand stitching or two-needle stitching—is time-consuming but ends up stronger than a machine stitch. If a thread is cut on one side of a saddle stitch, but the other side remains intact, the overall stitch will continue to retain its integrity. Whereas in a machine stitch, if one side of a stitch is broken the entire length of the stitch will be compromised and eventually separate. While saddle stitching is more time-consuming many find it to be enjoyable—and even quite calming—once mastered.
For this skill we will be referencing the steps in the book, "Lacing & Stitching," plus using the following tools:
• (2) Needles
• Lightly Waxed Poly Thread
• TandyPro® Stitching Groover
• TandyPro® Pricking Iron
• TandyPro® Awl
• Stitching Pony
Practice makes perfect! Similar to many other leathercraft skills, this may take time to master and might not be perfect on the first try. Keep practicing and the saddle stitch process will quickly become second nature!
Learn more: tandyleather.com/blogs/projects/tandy-skills-saddle-stitching
