Oiling Straps

[frank207]

Hi,

I'm sure this is a dumb question but I'll ask anyway. When applying neatsfoot oil to straps (belts, dog collars, wristbands etc.) is it necessary to oil the flesh side (back) in addition to the grain side or will just giving the grain side oil penetrate enough? Sometimes when doing a strap I will smooth the flesh side with gum trac., then dye. If I need to oil the flesh side will it penetrate the gum trac. effectively?

Thanks

Frank

[Dangerous Dave]

Hi,

I'm sure this is a dumb question but I'll ask anyway. When applying neatsfoot oil to straps (belts, dog collars, wristbands etc.) is it necessary to oil the flesh side (back) in addition to the grain side or will just giving the grain side oil penetrate enough? Sometimes when doing a strap I will smooth the flesh side with gum trac., then dye. If I need to oil the flesh side will it penetrate the gum trac. effectively?

Thanks

Frank

Frank,

How much oil to apply depends on the firmness of the piece of leather you are working with. For very firm leathers, I will apply oil to the flesh side and then the grain, for softer leathers, just the grain. If the leather is real fleshy I will paste the flesh side with gum trag, then very lightly oil. The oil does in fact penetrate through the gum.

I hope this helps.

Dave