4 Best Leather Threads for Hand Sewing Leather

Whether you're a newbie or you've been tackling projects for years, hand stitching leather is one of leathercrafting's tried-and-true techniques. There's just something about a hand-sewn leather project that radiates high end, artisan style that's hard to replicate with a machine! The leather thread you select can have a big impact on the look of your finished project and we're here to give you the lowdown on some of the top options you'll see on the market today.

1. Waxed Polyester Thread

First in the leather thread lineup is a consistent leathercrafter favorite, Ritza Tiger Thread. Tops in durability and strength, Tiger Thread features a flat-braided, 100% polyester design that's lightly waxed to impart weather resistance, durability, and a perfect touch of stiffness. The wax also adds a little weight for easier stitching and threading of your needles, making it a game changer for many beginner leathercrafters.

Imported from Germany, Tiger Thread is manufactured by Julius Koch, a company that got its start in 1895 and has since grown to offer high-end textile solutions including braided sewing thread. Tiger Thread is braided using yarns that have been specially developed to stand up to the demands of leatherwork.

Perfect for decorative seams, topstitching and finishing seams, Tiger Thread comes in an array of beautiful colors, from traditional to fashion forward. Tiger Thread's flat shape lends a more substantial appearance in comparison to the waxed linen thread we'll discuss next.

2. Waxed Linen Thread

When you want your stitching to exude a more refined look, waxed linen thread is a popular option. Fil Au Chinois is the trusted choice for the hand sewing needs of many artisan leatherworkers including those who craft some of the highest-end, designer leather goods in the world. From canvas to leather, Fil Au Chinois thread lends an elevated look that is coveted in luxury goods markets.

Imported from France, Fil Au Chinois' manufacturer, J. Toulemonde, has been making quality yarns since 1847. Made from fiber derived from the flax plant, linen thread is strong, durable, and will not stretch out with time and use.

The natural flax fibers in Fil Au Chinois Lin Cable are twisted, assembled, moistened and lightly waxed before being twisted again. This makes for a thread with more density and strength than other linen threads. In comparison to Tiger Thread's flat shape, Fil Au Chinois Lin Cable has a more rounded profile. Since it is not as heavily waxed as Tiger Thread, it has a little less body which can make it more challenging to work with, especially for beginners. It will also develop a patina as the product ages. You can add additional wax depending on your needs.

4. Twisted Polyester Thread

And last, but not least, twisted polyester thread is another popular choice for those looking to expand their leather hand stitching prowess. Imported from Japan, Nagai Yoriito's Vinymo MBT is a twisted polyester thread commonly used in both hand stitching and machine stitching applications. This thread undergoes a twisting and internal bonding process that helps it retain a tight bond even after it is cut. Fans of this type of thread are impressed by the clean, refined look of the finished stitches. Vinymo MBT thread comes unwaxed. A light coat of wax is recommended before using for hand stitching applications.