Stitching Groove / Scratch Compass:
Use:
Stitching grooves are cut in to the surfaces of leather to be hand stitched together so that the stitching may be recessed below the surface of the leather. This is done to reduce the surface wear on the stitching. Grooving is used were the stitches are not to be hidden. For hidden stitches a channeling tool is used to cut a slit that will later be closed. American toolmakers typically refer to these tools as stitching groovers, saddler or scratch compasses. English toolmakers may refer to these as race compasses.
Toolmaker: Henry G. Gomph & Co.
- A clearly marked "GOMPH" saddlers compass with interchangeable tips. There are three different size scratches for cutting different radius grooves. Also, there is a channeling point and a point that allows the tool to be used as a pair of dividers.
- Reprint of "Henry G. Gomph & Co. Fine Harness Tools" catalogue lists this tool as a No. 014 Pat. Leather Scratch Compasses with Extra Points.
- This tool was purchased as a part of a saddle and harness makers tool chest, said to belong to the Sawyer Brothers of Liberty, PA between 1905-1923.
Toolmaker: C.S. Osborne & Co.
- A fairly clearly marked "C.S. OSBORNE & CO. NEWARK-N.J." grooving compass.
- The turned up edge is sharpened to create a groove cutting surface.
- A late 1880's vintage C.S. Osborne catalogue lists this tool as a, No. 29. Patent Leather Compasses, Polished, Length 5 1/2 inches.
Toolmaker: C.S. Osborne & Co.
- A fairly clearly marked "C.S. OSBORNE & Co. NEWARK N.J." grooving compass.
- The turned up edge is sharpened to create a groove cutting surface.
- A late 1880's vintage C.S. Osborne catalogue lists this tool as a, No. 29 1/2. Spring Patent Leather Compass, or Shoemaker's Groover, Polished, Length 5 inches.
