A leather slicing machine (skiving machine) is a professional machine used to thin leather edges, particularly in the production of shoes, bags, and other leather goods. The purpose is to thin the leather in a specific area, making it easier to fold, sew, and achieve a smoother appearance.
The operating principle and process are explained below in a simplified manner:
How Does a Leather Slicing Machine Work?
✅ Basic Operating Principle
The machine contains a round steel blade (skiving blade).
The leather is brought into contact with the blade by the feed wheel (presser foot).
As the blade rotates, it cuts the leather in contact with it into thin layers.
The slicing leather pieces are removed by a suction system or a collection container.
✅ Steps of Use
The leather is prepared and the designated area is marked. (Seam allowance, edge to be folded, corner, etc.)
The machine is turned on, and the blade begins rotating.
The feed foot height and angle are adjusted.
The blade is adjusted according to the desired thickness.
The leather tip is placed under the feed foot.
The leather is fed through the machine in a controlled manner.
The machine gradually cuts and thins the leather.
A thinned surface is achieved at the end.
✅ Important Machine Settings
Setting Description
Feed Foot Pressure: Determines how much pressure is applied to the blade against the leather.
Shave Angle: The slope/taper of the leather's thinning angle.
Blade Sharpness: Important for a high-quality, tear-free shave.
Speed Adjustment: Slow/medium speed is preferred depending on the type and thickness of the leather.
Thin leather → soft pressure and slow speed.
Thick, tough leather → more pressure and high speed.
✅ What is it used for?
-- Shoe upper edge thinning
- Bag flap and interior parts
- Wallet corner thinning
- Leather belt tip thinning
- Areas to be hemmed
✅ Safety and Care Tips
- Do not put your hand too close to the blade.
- Use a protective hand guard.
- Sharpen the blade regularly.
- Keep the feed wheel clean.
- Do not allow the suction system to become blocked.