Sewing patches on leather can be a rewarding and practical way to personalize your leather garments or accessories. Whether you want to add a decorative touch or cover up a worn area, sewing patches on leather requires careful attention to detail to achieve a professional-looking result. In this article, we’ll discuss the tools and techniques you’ll need to sew patches on leather successfully.
1. Choose the Right Patch
Before you start sewing, choose a patch that is suitable for leather. Look for patches made from durable materials, such as denim or twill, that can withstand the rigors of sewing and wear. Measure to make sure that the patch is large enough to cover the area you want to repair or decorate.
2. Prepare the Leather
Before sewing the patch, prepare the leather surface by cleaning it with a damp cloth or a good leather cleaner like Skidmore’s or Meguiars to remove any dirt or debris. Allow the leather to dry completely before proceeding.
3. Position the Patch
Place the patch on the leather in the desired position, making sure it is centered and aligned correctly. Use pins to secure the patch in place, taking care not to pin through the front of the patch.
4. Needle and Thread
Choose a strong, heavy-duty thread that matches the patch’s color and a sharp needle suitable for leatherwork. According to Superior Threads, a bonded nylon thread in a heavy weight is the best thread for sewing leather. Thread the needle and tie a knot at the end of the thread.
5. Sewing Technique
Begin sewing the patch to the leather by inserting the needle from the back of the leather to the front of the patch, about 1/8 inch from the edge of the patch. Pull the thread through until the knot is snug against the leather.
6. Stitching
Using a simple running stitch or a saddle stitch, sew along the edge of the patch, making sure to sew through the patch and the leather. Space your stitches evenly and pull the thread tight to ensure a secure hold. Continue stitching around the entire edge of the patch until it is securely attached to the leather. For a demonstration of attaching a patch with a running stitch, look at my video where I attach a butterfly patch to a t-shirt.
7. Finishing
Once you have sewn around the entire edge of the patch, tie off the thread on the back side of the leather and trim any excess thread. If desired, apply a small amount of leather glue to the back of the patch to provide additional security.
8. Care and Maintenance
To keep your leather patches looking their best, avoid exposing them to excessive heat or moisture. If the leather becomes dirty, gently clean it with a damp cloth and allow it to dry naturally. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the leather.
Final Thoughts
Sewing patches on leather is a straightforward process that can be accomplished with the right tools and techniques. By following these steps, you can personalize your leather garments and accessories with stylish patches that add a unique touch to your wardrobe.
Anne James—also known as Jelly Grandma—is a professional canner and lifelong food preserver with over 55 years of hands-on experience. A retired librarian, paralegal, and self-taught expert in traditional Southern crafts, Anne specializes in canning, jelly-making, cooking, gardening, and quilting. She even has extensive experience as a bartender.
She’s been featured in the Daily Commercial and on Hershey’s website, and is lovingly known as the “go-to canner” in her family and beyond. Her mission is simple: to preserve and pass on the old ways—skills that kept generations thriving without shortcuts or preservatives.
You can find more of Anne’s work at PreservingSweetness.com, on YouTube, and occasionally on SurvivalFreedom.com.
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