asabrinao

Hi, Folks,

I've recently been gifted with a beautiful swatch of lambskin hide. I've been wanting to experiment with leather in my sewing and quilting, so this seems like the perfect opportunity.

So, first question (of many, I apologize): Has anyone ever quilted with suede or leather?

My piece is a very soft and very thin swatch of lambskin suede (taupe colored). It's small--roughly 3' x 2', so my options are somewhat limited. The piece is also quite pliable--it folds as easily as most of my other fabric and, in terms of weight and pliability, it's pretty similar to corduroy. In fact, it's probably even thinner and has more drape than the corduroy I've quilted with in the past (it's been advertised as being thin enough to use as lining fabric).

I was thinking of the following possible projects: part of a patchwork design, part of a quilted bag, a quilted journal cover, a smallish throw pillow.

Does the idea of conceiving a quilt project with animal hide just seem like a bad idea? I know my sewing machine can manage the material, so no concerns on that front. But, would a traditional quilt sandwich work? I guess I could always sew a test patch, but the amount I have is already so small that I really don't want to waste any.

If I'm on a fool's errand, I can certainly nix the whole idea of incorporating suede into a quilting project, but thought I'd test the waters here first.

So, in addition to the general questions stated above, I also have a few specific ones:

1) Would you use 1/2" seam allowance when quilting (or sewing) with suede?
2) I know I need to use leather needles, but is there a specific size I should use for a very thin suede?
3) What kind of thread would one use with thin suede and what weight?
4) What stitch length is best?

If it helps, I will be sewing on a Juki 2010q or a Juki F400.

Phew! I know that's a good number of questions. Y'all have always been so kind and generous with your advice that I really couldn't help myself!

Bestest,
A