Interesting chairs Chancey, you're right about old growth wood. Nothing like it now a days. Amuckart, interesting website on period furniture. Makes me appreciate the comfortable furniture of today! Intricate work by some talented people back then.
My guess is push it into shape like a vacuum press rather than using a rubbing action like you're giving it a massage. My thought is it's friction. I've had that problem too and when I don't force it the leather comes out better.
Thanks guys... I used 1/4" lacing with 1/4' slots made by a sharpened stainless steel screw driver. I praciticed making holes with a round hole punch and I didn't like the look . I really like using the 1/4" lace. It looks beefy. AND THE LACING GOES FASTER!
Welcome Brian, Wow, I think I want to go look around your Grandfather's shop too! Are you planning on selling any of his leather work tools? This would be a good place to do it!
Just thought I would ask if anyone else is concerned about leather prices going up due to the weather? The midwest is in dire need of rain. We have water usage bans here in Indiana. Food prices will be increasing. Corn and bean crops here look very sad. I figure the trickle effect will influence leather prices. I think I might stock up.