My first leather glasses case with or without stitching
Do you want to get started with leatherwork but don't know where to start? This tutorial is made for you! We provide you with 2 variations of patterns: the seamless version with the installation of rivets and the saddle stitch version.
List of tools and hardware used to make the glasses case
- 1 kilo of cowhide leather scraps - Natural grain - multicolored
- Precision knife for leather - Ivan
- OKA cutting and punching board
- Seiwa water based glue
- Reusable glue spreader
- Wooden mallet
- Silver pen
For the non stitching version:
For the stitching version :
- Diamond punch hole - 4mm
- Stitching awl
- Saddle stitch needle
- Thread
- Beeswax
- Divider - 30mm
- Stitching pony
The steps to follow to make your first leather glasses case
Steps common to both versions
Step 1: Print the pattern for free
We have provided you with a free pattern to get you started and start working with leather with confidence. Just click to download and print it. It is real size, assure you that the square measuring 1cm on each side.
Download free pattern - Non stitching version
Download free pattern - Stitching version
Step 2 : Cut the pattern
After having printed it and checking that the scale is correct, all you have to do is cut it out following the lines so you can then transfer it to your piece of leather.
Step 3 : Transfer the pattern to leather and cut it out
Once cut, you must place the pattern on your leather in such a way as to limit scraps (on a whole skin, favor one side rather than the center or use a scrap).
Trace the outlines with a marking pen or silver pencil.
Tip: use the rivet anvil to hold your sheet while you trace the contours, this will leave you one hand free and prevent the pattern from moving. You can also use double-sided tape.
It is important to use a sharp blade because otherwise the result will not be clean. Cut straight to limit repeated passes of the blade which could make the result less clean. Position the ruler on your lines, hold it firmly on the leather, the blade resting (lightly) on the ruler and cut.
Non stitching version
Step 4 : Punch the hole for the rivet
osition the pattern on your previously cut piece of leather (which you can hold using the anvil as during marking), take the corresponding hole puncher place it on the circles present on the pattern and punch it using a mallet or a maul.
Step 5 : Mark the glue stop and stick
Before applying the glue, fold the edges and draw a small guide line to avoid sticking out when sticking.
The glue will allow you to prevent the leather from moving when you place your rivets and also hold the non-riveted parts of the case. Apply the glue to the edges without going beyond the marking line. After a few minutes, glue the 2 sides edge to edge.
Step 6: fix the rivet
Once the glue has dried, simply install the rivets in the designated locations using a rivet setter, a mallet (or maul) and the anvil. Position the male part of the rivet on the anvil in its intended location, place the hole in the case on the rivet, “closed” with the female part of the rivet. Place the rivet setter straight above the rivet and tap sharply with the mallet to crimp the rivet.
After installing the rivets, you have completed your first glasses case, congratulations!
Stitching Version
Step 5 : Mark the glue stop and stick
Before applying the glue, fold the edges and draw a small guide line to avoid sticking out when sticking.
The glue will allow you to prevent the leather from moving when you place your rivets and also hold the non-riveted parts of the case. Apply the glue to the edges without going beyond the marking line. After a few minutes, glue the 2 sides edge to edge.
Step 6: Mark the stitching line
With a divider, mark the line to have a reference point to hit your claws.
Step 7: Punch your diamond hole.
Place the diamond hole on the previous line and punch it.
Step 8: Stitch (saddle stitch) :
For all the specifics of saddle stitch sewing, we refer you to our article on saddle stitch sewing.
Your first glasses case is finished, don't hesitate to share your creations with us on Instagram or Facebook!