Sewing toe clip leathers
 

I would like to sew leathers on my toe clips for the sake of my shoes (see http://www.velo-orange.com/toeclle.html if you don't know what I'm talking about). I have all the materials on hand to make them, but don't know exactly how to go about doing the sewing part. Anyone done it and have some advice to offer? Are there any tutorials online anywhere?

So, I searched the archives and the web in general but didn't come up with anything useful, so I figured this would be the best place to ask... Thanks!

You'll need a pair of pliers and a thimble for your thumb. Use the thimble to help push the needle through the leather and the pliers to pull it through once it pokes out the other side. Make sure to try out the thimble before you buy it as they come in different sizes. Good luck.

It'd not clear whether you sourced your own materials or bought the velo-orange kit. The web page says clear instructions are included. Even if you got your own materials, it's obvious from the picture how to do the sewing. Other than that, I don't know. My mother taught me how to sew, but it's really simple once you figure out one end of the needle from the other. You might find more information bt Googling "hand sewing leather". Good luck.

A stout 3" long needle with a little bend to it. Use a baseball stitch, starting at the top and work your way down to the bottom. The stitching goes on the outside of the toe clip. Rub a little natural bees wax into it when you are done.

(If the leather is pre-holed, scrap a little bit of the point of the needle off before you start.)

Pre holing is good, at least to one edge, I use a sewing machine to do that, one gets even spacing. Great for bar wrap.

Might look into a Speedy Speed Stitcher Sewing Awl, old, effective. And or a Sailmakers sewing palm.

OK, followup time. I had all the materials on hand at home - I just linked to Velo Orange for reference. I eventually just did it flying by the seat of my pants, and it turned out pretty well. I made some measurements, cut four little rectangles of leather, pre-punched the holes with an awl, and dug up a blunt needle. The sewing, as with all my sewing, is somewhat rough. It is, however, effective and secure and so far they look good and my shoes are happier. I also learned enough to make the next go more accurate and easier.

Now you can do your handlebars!

Noooooo - Oury grips for life! :D

Pics?