Thread to use for sheath making?

[kINGPIN]

I've been looking at the various threads and am very confused about the sizes thicknesses. I'm after a good strong thread in both nylon as well as linen. I want it to be reasonably thick like many of the other sheaths I see here with prominent stitching. Any recommendations would be appreciated, and any photos to show what it looks like on a sheath /pouch would be really useful.

I've seen 60s and 40s. What does that mean? ...and which one is thickest? Are they suitable for sheaths/and small leather goods?

Thanks

Andy

[Thumbcrusher]

Hi Kingpin, I often use Dakron thread. This is actually meant for making bowstrings out of so you can imagine its pretty strong stuff. It also comes ready waxed so stays nice and tight when you are stitching your leather. I also use linen but as far as thickness measurement are concerned i just look at it and think "yeh that'll do" so not much help to you there i'm afraid! Definately recommend the Dacron though!

Here's a supplier! (never used this one though!) http://www.chilternonline.com/browne...acron-material

[TreeCamper]

You could try using whipping twine as used by sailors.
Comes in various colours and is extremely strong and waterproof.
It is certainly thick enough to give a nice definition in leather.

Its manufactured by Marlow and is available from most chandlers.

[kINGPIN]

Thanks thumb. The problem I have is that almost all my buying is online, so its very hard to guage sizes. If I come across dacron in a shop I'll pick some up.

That seems like pretty expensive stuff treecamper, but looks the part. I'll be experimenting with alternatives, but I want to get experience first with the bonded nylon, and the waxed linen first. Thanks.

[TreeCamper]

http://www.marlowropes.com/index.php...=98&Itemid=174

[kINGPIN]

Finally found my answer, but it took a while to find it. I'll post this up here in case anyone else is interested; http://www.bowstock.co.uk/acatalog/Linen.html

I had to read it a few times for it to sink in. I think I'm going to be going for 18/3 or 18/4 for now.

[Tony1948]

This is wot I use Leather sewing waxed thread,item No 390081409291 £22:99 plus£5:00 postage on ebay,go on all categories,then on crafts,then on more at the bottomand go down to leathercraft.Its a bit dear but its good and braded so you can put the needle throw the middle of the thread,hope this helps.

[kINGPIN]

That stuff looks fantastic, is it nylon?

[Tony1948]

No its Thread,waxed.

[kINGPIN]

Just shown my lack of knowledge there... I thought thread was just 'thin string'...made of any material.

Lovely sheaths you made, I really like the one on the left. The stamping gives an excellent effect.