Every time I searched “saddle stitch machine” on Google, it was like the internet screamed: “It’s not possible!”
But I’m stubborn as hell—and I knew there had to be a way. 😤
So I kept digging. And guess what?
I was right. 😎
Machine Saddle Stitch
It’s true that your average sewing machine can’t produce a proper saddle stitch. But there is such a thing as a saddle stitch machine—and yes, it exists, and yes, it does exactly what you think it does.
Curious how it works? Let me break it down for you. Let’s do saddle stitch sewing machine practically.
Table of Contents
Can A Machine Do A Saddle Stitch?
Yes, but not the basic one like chain stitch. You need a special kind of saddle stitch sewing machine for it. Basically, you need an industrial sewing machine to do saddle stitching machine.
What Is A Saddle Stitch Machine?
A saddle stitch machine is a specialised machine that does saddle stitch while stapling through the fold (or spine) of the pages. Just like a specialised chainstitch machine stitch, too.
Here is how it work,
Instead of sewing like a fabric machine, it uses wire staples (often two or more) that punch through the folded center of stacked sheets and clamp them in place, like you’d see in a magazine or notebook or clothes.
The special 2 needle saddle stitcher makes the complex stitching possible!
Best Saddle Stitch Machine
I know after learning about the machine, you went down to search for it. But before you scratch your head, I have gathered a list of the best sewing machines for saddle stitch.
- Juki MP-200N Pinpoint Saddle Stitching Machine
- Cowboy CB4500
- DeLuxe StitchMaster
- ISP BinderyMate II Stitcher.
- Automatic Saddle Stitching Machine
Above those machines creates the best machine saddle stitch trust me..
How to do a saddle stitch on a sewing machine?
Got my machine, so it’s time to get into the stitching. To do a saddle stitch on a sewing machine, I follow the steps,
Fold Your Fabric
Alright—grab the two pieces of fabric (or leather) you want to saddle stitch together. These will usually be panels you’re joining, like the sides of a wallet, bag, or strap. Start by aligning the edges neatly, making sure everything is perfectly lined up. You want the stitching edge to be flush, no slipping or misalignment.
Now,
I use a ruler and fabric pen (or an awl), draw a straight stitching line about 3–5mm in from the edge. This will be your guide, like ladder stitch. It will help you do the saddle making sewing machine.
Decide On The Stitch Space For Saddle Stitch
Next, use a wing divider or a stitching spacer to mark even stitch points along the line.
This spacing should match the size of the stitch you want. I think a ¼-inch gap for saddle stitching is perfect.
Once the line and holes are marked, it’s time to punch the holes using a stitching chisel or pricking iron. Hold it steady and hammer straight down through both fabric layers. It will make sure smooth sewing.
Load the Booklet Onto the Saddle Tray
Now, head over to your saddle stitch machine. You’ll see the V-shaped metal tray. That’s called the saddle. That V is designed to hold your booklet right along its fold line.
Place your folded booklet spine down into the saddle.
Then I align it carefully, make sure it’s centered, and the corners of your pages are nice and flush.
Hold it gently so it doesn’t shift. If your machine has a paper guide or clamp, use it to keep everything in place like an overcast stitch.
Adjust Staple Position & Settings
Depending on your machine (manual, electric, or industrial), now’s the time to adjust the staple heads.
- If you’re using a multi-head machine, decide how many staples you want—usually two for smaller booklets and possibly three for larger ones.
- Slide the staple heads along the rail until they’re spaced evenly from the top and bottom of your booklet.
A standard placement is 1 inch from the top and bottom edges, but you can adjust based on booklet size.
Check your staple supply too—make sure the cartridge or wire spool is loaded.
Press The Start Button
Once everything is lined up and locked in, press the start button or hit the foot pedal (depending on your model).
Clunk! Clunk!—
You’ll hear the staple heads punch down and fold the legs of the staple neatly on the inside of the booklet.
It’s fast—like blink-and-it s-done fast. You’ll instantly see the saddle stitch forming little by little. Hold the button until the task is complete.
End Saddle Stitch With Backstitch
When I reach the end, the stitch looks so good. So I end it with the backstitch. Here is how,
- Cross the threads inside the last hole.
- Backstitch through the last 2–3 holes in reverse to lock the stitch.
- Trim the thread ends close to the fabric.
- (Optional) Melt or tuck the ends if using waxed thread, for extra security.
That’s it—clean and strong!
How To Do Saddle Stitch Machine Youtube
Still not sure what to do? Then watch this video
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a saddle stitch machine?
Yes, If you’re producing booklets, magazines, or catalogs regularly and want speed + precision, then yes—a saddle stitch machine can save you tons of time. But for small projects or occasional use, manual stapling or hand stitching (for leather or fabric) can still do the job.
Which saddle stitchers can use the spine creaser?
High-end or industrial saddle stitch machines—like Duplo, Horizon, or Heidelberg systems—often come with a built-in or optional spine creaser. It flattens the fold after stitching to give your booklet a sharp, professional finish. Entry-level machines usually don’t include this feature.
That’s it
That’s how a saddle stitch machine!
If you don’t have a machine, consider buying one and trying it out.
Share your thoughts with sewinginspo.
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