How to Hand Sew a Broken Seam on a Leather Recliner

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of hand sewing a broken seam on a leather recliner. Repairing leather furniture not only extends its life but also saves you money on professional repairs. With a few simple tools and techniques, you can restore your recliner to its original condition.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin the repair, collect the necessary materials:

• Curved needle (available for purchase here)
• Upholstery thread (purchase indoor upholstery thread here)
• Scissors
• Thimble (optional, but recommended for comfort)
• Fabric glue (optional, for extra adhesion)

Step 2: Prepare the Seam

Inspect the broken seam closely to understand the extent of the damage.

• Clean the area around the broken seam to remove any dirt or debris.
• If the leather is fraying, trim any loose threads with scissors.
• For a stronger hold, apply a small amount of fabric glue to the seam edges and allow it to dry slightly before sewing.

Step 3: Thread the Needle

Properly threading your needle is essential for a successful repair.

• Cut a length of upholstery thread, approximately 3-4 times the length of the seam you are repairing.
• Thread the curved needle, making sure to leave an equal length of thread on both sides for easy handling.
• Tie a knot at the end of the thread to secure it.

Step 4: Start Sewing the Seam

Now you are ready to begin sewing the seam.

• Insert the needle from the inside of the seam to hide the knot.

Use a simple whip stitch or running stitch to sew the seam together

• For a whip stitch, loop the thread over the edge of the leather and through to the other side.
• For a running stitch, push the needle in and out of the leather, creating even stitches along the seam.
• Pull the thread taut but be careful not to overstretch the leather.

Step 5: Finish the Stitching

Once you reach the end of the seam, it's time to secure your work.

• Tie a knot close to the leather to prevent the thread from slipping.
• If you have excess thread, trim it with scissors.
• Optionally, you can apply a small amount of fabric glue to the knot for added security.

Step 6: Inspect the Repair

After completing the sewing, take a moment to inspect your work.

• Ensure that the seam is even and secure.
• Check for any loose areas that may need additional stitching.
• Allow any glue used to dry completely before using the recliner.

Conclusion

You’ve successfully repaired the broken seam on your leather recliner! With a few simple tools and techniques, you’ve extended the life of your furniture. For future repairs, consider practicing on scrap leather to refine your sewing skills. Don't hesitate to reach out for professional help if needed, especially for larger damages. Enjoy your newly restored recliner!