How Do I Soften Latigo

[TomG]

Hi All,

I have searched the forums and can't find an answer to this..

I made a nice leash for someone from 10 oz Latigo. It was a "remake" of her existing leash, which she had broken and wanted the same snap on a new one for sentimental reasons... We aim to please.

She has asked me how to "soften" it. I thought it was pretty soft as it was. However, her old one was pretty flimsy and really flexible from years of handling.. probably body oil - human and dog..

Any tips on what she can use on it to soften/condition it without damaging it?

Also, isn't Latigo pretty water resistant as-is?

thanks

Tom

[dbusarow]

Find an eye bolt with an eye large enough for the leash to go through. Attach firmly to wall. Run the leash through the eye. Grab one end of the leash with each hand. Imitate a cross country skier, pulling leash first with one hand then the other. Lean back and put your weight into it. The repeated bending/flexing of the leather over a small radius will break it down quickly.

Dan

[hidepounder]

Hi All,

I have searched the forums and can't find an answer to this..

I made a nice leash for someone from 10 oz Latigo. It was a "remake" of her existing leash, which she had broken and wanted the same snap on a new one for sentimental reasons... We aim to please.

She has asked me how to "soften" it. I thought it was pretty soft as it was. However, her old one was pretty flimsy and really flexible from years of handling.. probably body oil - human and dog..

Any tips on what she can use on it to soften/condition it without damaging it?

Also, isn't Latigo pretty water resistant as-is?

thanks

Tom

Tom,

I've had good luck using Horseman's One Step or Leather New. I work it in good with my hands. When I think oil is needed I like to use Tanners Harness Dressing. I've been using it on my reins and like it alot.

Bobby

[Bevan]

Find an eye bolt with an eye large enough for the leash to go through. Attach firmly to wall. Run the leash through the eye. Grab one end of the leash with each hand. Imitate a cross country skier, pulling leash first with one hand then the other. Lean back and put your weight into it. The repeated bending/flexing of the leather over a small radius will break it down quickly.

Dan

Well said Dan ,, i do this with every inch of roo leather that i make whips with , old mate Bernie showed me awhile back , wet it in COLD water , for 23 seconds then stretch between two pegs , but i use a hook and stretch just as you said ,,, job done in 15 min!!!! i also make my own plaiting soap , kidney fat from a lamb , soap flakes and water ,,give the roo a lick of that then , walla , very soft roo leather , !!!

Bevan

Edited August 5, 2010 by Bevan