Hi CT. I use 7-8oz on all my straps, and then line them and put foam on them. I've used suede before to line with and never had any trouble with them being stiff. However, I use bag balm on mine after all the dye, finish etc. and work that into the leather for probably 1/2 hour and let it soak in over night. I get a nice drape out of them using this method. Cheryl