Leather Sewing Needles, Awls & Punches NZ
LEATHERWORK · NEEDLES · PIERCING & PUNCHING
Choose leather sewing needles, awls and revolving punches in New Zealand for suitable leatherwork and repairs. Compare hand needles with domestic or industrial machine needles, and choose a piercing or punching tool for the hole your project needs.
Choosing leather needles, an awl or a punch
Hand or machine sewing? Prym and Tulip leather hand needles are separate from machine needles. For machine sewing, first match the complete needle system in your manual, then choose the size and cutting point for the leather and thread. Household leather needles and industrial systems such as 135x16, 16x230 and 135x8 are not interchangeable simply because they are labelled for leather.
A cutting point leaves a permanent hole: LL, LR and triangular points create different incisions and stitch appearances. Test the complete seam on an offcut, including stitch spacing and any reverse stitching. Cutting points can sever woven or knitted yarns, and not every backed imitation leather needs one. The needle does not increase your machine’s material capacity.
Awls pierce; revolving punches cut: A pointed or tapered awl makes a starting hole or gradually enlarges it. A revolving punch removes a circle in the selected diameter. Compare the listed punch sizes and material limits; these are different methods, not interchangeable tools for every leather thickness.
Match the hardware and pack: Follow the fitting instructions for snaps, eyelets or other hardware, including any separate setting tool required. Check needle length, size and pack quantity. Support the material on a suitable protective surface, keep hands clear of sharp points and store tools securely.
