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Step 1
When putting a patch on leather the iron on backs seldom work well. They are made for cloth or denim. The high heat may damage the jacket. Some of the glues are not formulated for leather and won't hold long term.
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Step 2
If using a sewing machine you will probably need a thicker leather needle used for shoe repair. These are made for manual foot treadle machines so you control speed better.
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Step 3
Sewing by hand is what I have usually done.You may need to remove the lining from the jacket in the area you are going to sew the patch in. You may be able to just undo an edge and slip your hand between the lining and the jacket. You will want a good thimble and a sharp smaller upholestry needle. Light fishing line or clear nylon thread is best.
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Step 4
Mark the jacket with chalk where the patch goes so you can see that you are keeping it strait as you go. Do the first stitch from the inside coming out so the knot stays hidden. Work around the patch about 1/16th of an inch apart on stitches. When you get back to the beginning do 2 half hitches onto the first knots and cinch it down. Then put the needle and thread under the edge of the patch and work it to the far side and out or back into the jacket. Cut it so it stays long but the tail is under the patch or inside the lining.
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Step 5
After all that I am going to tell you that if you are not flat broke save a few hours and sore fingers. A good shoe repair store or tailor can do this by machine for a few dollars. If you go to a shoe repair shop make sure you specify the color of thread you want to use so they do not use a odd color that is on their machine from the last repair job. Chose a color that will be hidden against the patch embroidery.
Comments
AlexysQuinn said
on 12/20/2008 I love leather. Good tips.
PurpleAnkh said
on 12/1/2008 Great tips! I am going to let my brother in on this little secret.