# Lacing and Stitching

Part of the Leatherwork Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/leatherwork/guide/index.md)

*3. Building Your Project*

> **3f.** Assembly by lacing or stitching

This is the step where separate pieces become one finished article. Good assembly is more than just getting the parts attached. It affects strength, appearance, flexibility, and how long the project survives real use.

Video: [How to Punch Holes (for Sewing) in Leather (video)](https://youtu.be/GYnXLSGakYA?si=WJoxl-Dto6gmMres)

Video: [How to Choose the Right Thread and Needle Size for Hand-Sewing in Leather (video)](https://youtu.be/CepMYy3yra8?si=bpkV8Y0zoef-tBId)

Video: [The Most Common Stitches in Hand-Stitching for Leatherwork (video)](https://youtu.be/Hd103-7adK8?si=UnFoIJJ46SNdtwf7)

Video: [How to Start and End Hand-Swing Lines in Leather (video)](https://youtu.be/Eew734WXXzs?si=Jkc2U94RGO1eTfpY)

### Lacing vs. stitching

**Lacing** uses leather or synthetic lace threaded through larger holes. It can be decorative as well as structural and often gives projects a bold edge.

**Stitching** usually uses thread and needles through smaller, more closely spaced holes. It can look cleaner and more refined, especially on wallets, pouches, and notebook covers.

### What strong assembly needs

Pieces must line up correctly before you start. Hole spacing should be consistent. Thread or lace should match the scale of the project. Tension should be firm enough to hold the pieces together but not so tight that the leather puckers.

![Close-up step diagram of two leather pieces aligned edge to edge with evenly spaced holes and a saddle stitch passing through both layers](https://ik.imagekit.io/doulacoop/tr:w-800/mbu-assets/merit-badges/leatherwork/guide/saddle-stitch-layer-alignment?v=47768600)

**Assembly checkpoints** — Check these before calling the seam finished

- [ ] Edges line up the way you planned.
- [ ] Hole spacing looks even.
- [ ] Thread or lace fits the hole size.
- [ ] Beginning and ending stitches are secure.
- [ ] No loose loops, twists, or missed holes remain.

> **Tip**
>
> Practice the start and finish of your stitch line on scrap first. Many beginners make decent stitches in the middle but weak starts and endings that come loose later.

Stitching and lacing solve one type of assembly problem. Hardware solves another. Next comes snaps and rivets.

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- Previous: [Dye, Stain, and Finish](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/leatherwork/guide/req3e/index.md)
- Next: [Snaps and Rivets](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/leatherwork/guide/req3g/index.md)