Advice needed - old leather satchel

[Mike313]

Hi Folks,
This is not really a bushcraft question but since I know there are some very skilled and experienced leather workers on here, it seemed like the best place to come for advice.
Whilst having a bit of a clear-out, I happened upon a leather satchel that I bought in Greece maybe 35+ years ago.

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The back, front and flap are made out of quite thick leather and the sides and bottom are a lighter leather. It is a lovely bag and I am hoping to use it for carrying sketch-pads and watercolours - a newly acquired hobby of mine. The problem is the leather has become quite stiff and I was wondering what I should do to refurbish it. How should I treat the leather and what products should I use? Some of the stitching is coming apart on the bottom seams and I will need to repair this at some point. What grade of thread should I use?

Any and all advice will be appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

 

[Klenchblaize]

35 years without a drink it deserves to be allowed a bucket of mink oil.

K

 

[Tengu]

http://absorbine.com/products/leather-care/horsemans-one-step-cream/

Is what I use. Its not cheap but it works wonders.

Then sew up the seams using linen thread or button thread, -anything strong really.

 

[Robbi]

Neatsfoot oil works wonders.

here.....

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gold-Label...&qid=1466028281&sr=8-5&keywords=neatsfoot+oil

or some Tesco's sell it.

 

[Mike313]

Klenchblaize, Tengu & Robbi -- Thanks for the replies and advice. Much appreciated.

 

[birchwood]

I would use Hydrophane especially for the inside as it will soften the leather but wont be greasy for when you put your gear in it.
Followed by several applications ( over a few days) of saddle soap, on the outside.
If you are going to a tack shop to get leather stuff, get some plaiting thread , it will do for your stitching.

 

[Janne]

I would first gently clean it, a soap/water solution and a tooth brush in all crevasses and around the stiches.
Let dry well, then mink oil as recommended.

 

[Mike313]

Thanks birchwood and Janne. I'm hoping to work on the bag in the next few days.

 

[Robson Valley]

I'd work the outside first and a very, very light touch at that = do nothing to the inside.
Why not just a clean-up, bit of a wax shine and say that you're done with it?

I say that because any oily, water-resistant smudges on your good w/c papers and you can kiss that sketch good-bye.
I've been puddling around with w/c for 30+ years.
Oily finger-print smudges only happen on the best papers with the very best started paintings.

 

[Mike313]

RV, that's a good point! Thanks for the advice.

 

[Klenchblaize]

If you go for Neatsfoot oil, be very careful you don't overdo it as it will leach oil for evermore.

A good alternative to mink oil is Connolly hide food:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Saddlery-Shop-Connolly-Hide/dp/B002RXD5T6

K

 

[DaveBromley]

I'd avoid neatsfoot oil, as it plays merry hell with stitching if its a natural material. You should look at Carnuba wax imo, this is a cream that will nourish the leather as well as give it a slightly water resistant finish. Apply a good dose and leave to soak and then buff off excess.

Dave