How to recondition very old leather?

[sandbender]

Any suggestions?

I found a very old leather shoulder bag at a flea market, I am led to believe that it was made during the nineteen twenties or thirties. The leather is in very good condition with very few cracks or tears however it is now very stiff.

What is the best way to soften it up? Which polishes/oils (if any) should I use.

Thanks.

 

[malente]

Maybe soak it in warm water (but no soap or anything)? This should not harm leather.

Just make sure afterwards, when you dry it, that it dries slowly and not in the sun or by the fire. Also work the leather softly to make it suple.

But better wait till some leather work experts arrive.

What kind of leather is it?


Mike

 

[Shewie]

Nikwax do a leather reconditioner which I've used to salvage some pretty crusty boots before.
It has a sponge applicator which makes easy work of covering and then just remove the excess and give it a quick buff.

 

[Blades]

I've always been advised towards Pecards leather dressing for the upkeep of my bullwhip

http://www.davidmorgan.com/product_info.php?products_id=27

It was advised that you don't use certain oils because they have something in them that isn't good, but I cant remember what it is !!

Anyway the pecards keeps my whip 'moist' and supple anyway. Should hopefully soften up stiff leather.

 

[sandbender]

What kind of leather is it?

It was a cow I think. I have now posted some pics in the first post.

Lots of good pointers, thanks everyone.

 

[gregorach]

I'd give it a good clean with saddle soap before getting any conditioners on there...

 

[leon-1]

I'd give it a good clean with saddle soap before getting any conditioners on there...

I have to agree, but saddle soap is a lot more than just a cleaner. Saddle soap contains a mild detergent, beeswax and Neatsfoot Oil.

Saddle soap can in it's own right clean the leather as well as replace some of the oils that will allow the pouch to become more supple and then protect with the beeswax.

If saddle soap doesn't get it supple enough I would then use mink oil or mink paste on it, leave it for a while (24 - 72 hrs) and then buff with a clear polish.

 

[huntsmanbob]

Saddle soap is the way to go i have restored some very dry bridles with it.

 

[rancid badger]

neets foot oil
R.B.

 

[Barney]

Thats a great looking bag you got yourself there. Some lovely touches on it. I like the pipe work on the edge, Very nice. I hope it comes up good for you.

 

[Bizmarty]

Don't forget to post pics of the finished master piece

 

[FGYT]

got hold of my Grandads old fishing bag the other day from the 60's ive just painted on a few coats of neatsfoot oil witha paint brush soaked it up like a sponge

ATB

Duncan

 

[British Red]

Neatsfoot oil for softening would be my steer too - but then clean with sadlesoap to keep it that way

Red

 

[Thijzzz]

Clean with saddle soap, then after drying apply uncolored shoe wax. Do it 3 times wait every time till the wax has been absorbed, that should help.

 

[sandbender]

Thanks for all these suggestions.

I will post some pics of the bag after it has been treated.