I've done both as well, and have had good luck with each. Boning and forming can cause a difference in absorption, but that can be considered character to me. I have gone to using fiebings pro dyes, and like the results much better, and a lot less rub off. Still, use gloves or you'll have colored hands, helps eliminate fingernail mark's too. I use pure neats foot oil on my holsters and sheaths. I've heard of many using olive oil, but have never tried that myself.