The impeccable and virtually indestructible saddle stitch on leather
(Photo from britishblades.com)
I’m so glad that tomorrow will be the third and final part of my comprehensive examinations! I have lots of things to do in mind and the prospect of finally carrying them out makes me a bit giddy due to excitement. One project I hope to do was dabbling on leathercraft!
When I was in high school, we had six sections per year level and on our sophomore year, each section was assigned with a specific area of specialization. Sections two to six were assigned with a specific vocational course: electronics, automotive, woodcraft, welding and leathercraft for the boys; while, girls work on culinary, dressmaking and home economics.
Being on the first section, we were (un)fortunately bombarded with TONS of Math and Science subjects. I remember cursing Chemistry and Physics because we took them twice, but nothing compares to my hatred towards Mathematics, especially as I was overtly cursed off by my Analytic Geometry teacher categorically saying she did not like me… oh well!
Looking back and considering my current fixation with bags, I am slightly wishing that they could have at least made us choose if we would like to take any of those courses because the leather making courses surely looked like fun.
Anyway, I can always push through with this initiative, especially as I live in Marikina — the epicenter of Philippines leathercraft business! On my way to work alone, I pass by around a dozen leather supply stalls, so this project just needs strong will on my part to commence. I was also able to obtain a copy of the book “The Art of Making Leather Cases”ย and “The Art of Handsewing Leather” both by Al Stohlman and browsing the pages made me want to head to the nearest leather supply store and grab things to start my own little project.
The Art of Making Leather Cases by Al Stohlman
The Art of Handsewing leather by Al Stohlman
(Photos from thecrazysmile.com)
Illustration of Saddle Stitch from Al Stohlman’s book
But what I wanted to learn the most was the saddle stitch, which I know will take a considerable amount of time to master. Who wouldn’t want to replicate the stitching in the Hermรจs bags, which pretty much sums up the reason for their high prices (of course, you know I’m kidding because the bags are still disproportionately-priced, but it requires a separate discussion).
I would like to experiment in how the stitch was done, and maybe someday, I will be able to make a bag of my own design. But for now, let me finish this major roadblock of an exam before I go full steam ahead!
ETA 11/25/2014:
For a review and directions of the store where I buy leather from, you may read the post “I can taste the leather“
Hi! Just wanted to ask Saan po exact location nung leather stalls?
Hi Mariel! The row of leather supplies stalls is located near the Marikina Bridge. Same side of the Padi’s Point and if you enter the street next to Baliwag or Andok’s, andun na sya when you turn left kagad. Also, when you go to Marikina Public Market, meron din mga leather supplies near the dry market area, sa tapat, may mga hilera din dun, as well as sa paligid. Impossible na hindi ka makakita. Good luck! ๐
(ETA 11/25/2014 – For review of the store and directions, please read: https://bryologue.com/2014/11/22/i-can-taste-the-leather/)
Thank yo so much! I’ve been searching the net for info since forever!
Really liking your blog, btw, interesting and informative.
Thanks again!
No problem! If you were to need a detailed map, just let me know so I can make one ๐ Thanks for finding my blog informative, that means a lot! <3
Hi! I just stumbled upon your blog while looking for leather crafting stuff here in the Philippines. Would you happen to know where to buy tools for leather crafting such as edge slickers, spacer set etc. ๐
Hi there! As far as I know, this area with leather supplies in Marikina near the Marikina Bridge (i.e. General Luna Street corner Guerilla Extension) has leather crafting tools as well. The last time I dropped by their place to snoop around, I saw tools. This area, as well as its adjacent streets, has lots of stores to choose from. Just check Google maps and search for “Guerilla Extension, Marikina City”. There also stores along M. Cruz St. It is to the left of the Marikina bridge, running parallel to J. P. Rizal. good luck!
Wow thanks a lot man. ๐ I might also look for copies of the books you mentioned. Great information you got here ๐
Sure no problem! If you like, I have a PDF copy of the second book above and I can forward it to you via email. ๐
I just finished downloading it :))
Nice! Enjoy and hope you get to find what you need in Marikina City ๐
Hi! you know where i can get those leather crafting books? ๐ I’m going to try to teach a group leather crafting. Or if you know a professional leather crafter, that would also be great. Thanks so much for this post btw, very informative. keep it up ๐
Hi! Sorry for the late reply. I can email you a copy of the book where I learned it from. Good luck!
Hi! Great blog! How much will the leather cost? Are they sold in yards or meters? Thank you!
Hi! The leather is priced per square foot, and depending on the hide, you have to buy it as whole or in half. Cheers!
Hi! I love your blog! Very informative. This has been a big help to me. ๐
Would it be possible to request for a copy of the book via email?
Thank you so much!
Hello there! Sorry for the late reply. Check your inbox!
Hi bryologue can u pls send me a copy of pdf. Thanks
Hi! Please check your inbox!
Hi! I would like to have a copy of the book please! ๐