leather restoration

[ChrisKavanaugh]

Sometimes we acquire vintage kit with leather accouterments. Oftentimes the leather is suspect and should simply be renewed. But if it's a key piece or sound the following formula works. Take one bar of Castille soap ( available in many organic or healthfood stores) and shave half into 2 cups of hot water to make a slurry. Now add 2 cups of common ammonia. Pour this into a 2 liter soda bottle and top off with more water. Take a sponge and apply it to the leather. Prepare for a bubbly mass reminiscent of radioactive peat. You can gently scrub small areas with a soft toothbrush, including copper rivets turned dark green. Next wipe it clean with sponge and water. The result will be totally stripped leather and bright copper. DO NOT let the leather dry out, but immediately apply a quality dressing to restore the moisture.

 

[alick]

Wow ! I bet that's a sight to see :yikes:

Thanks - that could be really useful tip. :biggthump