Author Topic: How to get started??? (Read 1403 times)

Dalton Masterson · « **on:** February 06, 2004, 01:40:24 PM »

What are the steps people use, other than just cutting and stitching, to get a nice finish on their pieces? Beeswax? Gum Trac.? What dyes? Oils? etc.. DM

DB Leath · « **Reply #1 on:** February 07, 2004, 01:15:31 PM »

Dalton I use Fiebings finishes most of the time. The have an excellent product and have many options.

They even have some antique finishes that look wonderful. I use a product called Leather Balm with Atom wax on dark colored items. Makes for a nice finish.

I also apply neatsfoot oil to items to make them soft and to protect them.

I have heard that applying some neatsfoot oil to an item before staining makes the finish more even...I also lightly wet the item before staining too.

Hope this helps.

DB

Dalton Masterson · « **Reply #2 on:** February 07, 2004, 04:35:17 PM »

I will have to mess with the Neatsfoot oil before dying. I hadn't heard of that. My colors seem to streak really bad. I have the leather slightly moist, and then daub it on. Is there a secret? DM

Roy Cobb · « **Reply #3 on:** February 08, 2004, 03:16:35 AM »

I use the Gum trag for edging but you have to use it after you dye the item or the edges won't take the dye as well, I second the fiebings suggestion. I use the Super Sheen or Acrylic Resolene on most things
I have never used the Neatsfoot oil prior to dyeing an item. I would try it on a scrap first.....
Also to get a more even finish make sure you use the largest aplicator you can find or spray it.

This is Fiebings USMC black with a double cost of Super sheen.

DB Leath · « **Reply #4 on:** February 08, 2004, 03:19:08 AM »

Supposedly...and this tip was given to me by a guy that has worked for Tandy and other companies for 40 year...the oil before is just like the dyes that have oil in them.. I would try in on some scrap before hand.

DB