one for the leather workers

[heath]

I just bought a shoulder split to do some serious leather work. Being a first-timer I didn't realise that it had a rough finish on both sides. I just wondered whether it will still take dye? If it does then I guess it's not so bad, my work will just be a bit rustic.
Any info would be appreciated.

 

[John Fenna]

It should take dye beautifully!
If you want to smooth off one (or both)sides try rubbing it well with bees wax then boning it - rubbing it hard with polished bone (or the back of a spoon).
This will make your work slightly less "rustic" in looks....

 

[heath]

Thanks John, I feel much better about my blunder now.

 

[cheapeats]

Heath for future reference any time the word split is used that means the hide has been split in 2 or more layers. The layers without the smooth side are sold as splits.

 

[Indoorsout]

Don't feel too bad, I made the same mistake a while ago