Natural Finishes

[Mannemal]

Hi! I'm fairly new. I've done a couple of projects stain and all out of a tandy kit, and I was just wondering about alternative, more natural finishing. Is it possible to just apply a wax or some sort of oil and just leave it at that? (no stain or finish) Or is that taboo? Also are there any waxes or oils that have some sort of stain/dye in them? Any and all info much appreciated!

[TwinOaks]

Yes, there are several brands of oil that have some light pigments in them. And it is not uncommon to simply oil a piece of leather and let it darken naturally. One of the most beautiful patinas leather can get is when it's been "sun tanned"....I've never been able to replicate it with stains or dyes. Simply oil the leather (lightly) and place it outside in strong sunlight. The UV rays from the sun will darken the leather quite well. You can also just let the leather pick up whatever oils it will from being handled. The downside to letting the leather darken on its own is that it is not protected from drying out. If you decide to use the 'au natural' method, give it a few days or weeks to get the right color, then condition the leather and seal with a good finish

[Jimbob]

Hi! I'm fairly new. I've done a couple of projects stain and all out of a tandy kit, and I was just wondering about alternative, more natural finishing. Is it possible to just apply a wax or some sort of oil and just leave it at that? (no stain or finish) Or is that taboo? Also are there any waxes or oils that have some sort of stain/dye in them? Any and all info much appreciated!

Use a good coating of neats foot oil, not overdoing it....then let dry....get some Fiebings Aussie wax or some simular wax finish with (beeswax ) put it in sun light as stated and you have a wonderful mellow tan color, close to a well used cared for saddle.....beautiful finish....and it is water repellent too....!!

James