Re-soften leather advice pls.

[greensurfingbear]

Its been a while since Ive really been on the forum. Ive been reading just not posting. Not had much to say recently if you can believe it! Anyway Im making a leather Tote bag for the missus ,I know not very bushcrafty but making stuff for her from time to time keeps her sweet about me buying my stuff!

I stitched the panels together and as it was a bugger to flip inside out I wet it and its all dried hard and stiff (oooooh matron!!).

What can i put on it to soften it up to finish stitching and working on it?

Orric

 

[British Red]

Neatsoot oil is the best thing - designed to soften leather. It may darken the leather a little if its light in colour.

 

[greensurfingbear]

Neatsoot oil is the best thing - designed to soften leather. It may darken the leather a little if its light in colour.

thanks Red I read that online but always worth asking trusted opinions

orric

 

[John Fenna]

The Red is Right ... as per normal!

 

[British Red]

Word to the wise - do get "neatsoot oil" NOT "neatsfoot oil compound". The compound is mixed with some other oils and those may cause stitch rot in some natural fibres used in stitching.

 

[Coldfeet]

Something like this: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Neatsfoot-O...UTF8&qid=1416041844&sr=8-5&keywords=neatsfoot

 

[Redochre]

I use a neatsfoot oil/beeswax mixed at 50/50. It seems to hold the oil better than just neatsfootoil alone.

The only issue with the thread is mixture of grit from day to day use. The grit mixes with the oil, makes an abrisive compound so when you have movement on the stitching the thread is effectively being stropped.

 

[weekender]

I have some leather straps (?) that need doing great tip. Could the oil be used on boots??


Sent from somewhere?

 

[Chris the Cat]

I use Effax Leather Balm these days.

C.

 

[British Red]

I have some leather straps (?) that need doing great tip. Could the oil be used on boots??


Sent from somewhere?

It can be used on boots but it can soften a LOT so be cautious. Saddle soap contains a small amount of neatsfoot oil so will soften as it cleans.

 

[weekender]

Mmm I had some saddle soap somewhere
Thanks Red sir you are the Oracle

Sent from somewhere?