Side Seam Moccasins

[Desert Rat]

Anybody out there use these regularly? I made a pair and the point where the side stitch meets the back stitch hits my heel in a bad way. I'm wondering if I did something wrong or if that's just the nature of these mocs? I think part of the problem is that I'm using a moc/chap split that is cowhide so it is fairly unforgiving but any ideas would be helpful. A braintan would probably work out way better but I don't have the time or the $$$ right now to make some up.

PS. If anyone is interested in the pattern and directions Side Seam Mocs
The directions are good and I was able to turn out a semi servicible moc (except the heel thing) first whack. I made a pair out of wool first just to test and didn't have to change my pattern for the leather.

 

Rat,

In my experience side seams work well only with light weight soft leathers like brain tan or German tan. Heavier leather rubs me raw there too.

Sean

 

[Black Hand]

Try wetting the seam and pounding it lightly with a mallet to flatten it. Sometimes this works....