Hand Stitching Thread and Needles - Revisited 2019

[J. Keeton]

Hey guys, I'm looking to order some new thread and harness needles for hand stitching. I was wondering what yall recommend when it comes to dimensions of the thread and needles. And type of thread (nylon, polymer, etc).

I found this chart on harness needle sizes posted by @Diomedes Industries on an old thread:



I'm currently looking at this 1mm thread:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GWKH5N6/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?smid=AZYE19NCE07E7&psc=1


And these needles:

John James 002
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B..._title_dp_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3CWGF5BCTJKNN

Osbourne size 0
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C35FYRK/ref=crt_ewc_title_dp_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A97TLFD8ZZHBC


Also I plan on making my sheaths with mostly non-dyed leather. Which lead me to either white or beige thread. Any color combination recommendations?

Any recommendations on any of this are greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
JKeeton

 

[Old Biker]

I recommend you get several sizes of needles and thread. Then you have some options. I punch my sewing holes with diamond punches. I usually use the size that has 1/8 inch between holes. I like Tandy's braided thread because, I like the way it looks in those holes, with that spacing. I find a #0 needle works good for that thread. If I was making a project out of thin leather, like say a wallet, I would want to use finer thread and a finer needle.

 

[ty_higg]

My preferred thread is ritza tiger thread. I use 1mm for sheaths and I think .6 or .8 for my wallets. I’ve heard good things from the John James needles and will probably be what I order next.

 

[Hengelo_77]

I use 0,45 to 0,8mm polyester wax thread from Aliexpress. Cheap and works well.
I have an assortement of colours, just because and it makes me happy.
I prefer needles as thin as still accepting the thread. Tapping the end of thread flattens it, making it go trough a finer needle. Blunt tip only

 

[kenjal]

John James needles, they are the strongest I've used (eye doesn't break as easily). I believe they have a size chart kinda like Osbourne. I use Ritza Tiger thread, several colors and sizes. Use the size according to the job you're doing. Color is a matter of preference. It's all fun.

 

[J. Keeton]

Awesome! Thanks to all for the replies. Extremely helpful!

I've been making due with the cheap (sharp) needles that came with my cheap starter tool set... Time for a serious upgrade. After messing around for the past month with sheath projects, I have gained much respect for you guy's talent and skills! It's like having to play golf yourself before being able to appreciate watching the masters. Yall make it look easy!