CharlieR Report post Posted November 24, 2009 OK, I just saw a holster and gun belt rig that I thought had ridden across the plains with a crusty old cowboy only to discover that it was a recently made project made to look that way. How do you age leather to make it appear as an antique or older, well used leather piece?? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Hilly Report post Posted November 24, 2009 OK, I just saw a holster and gun belt rig that I thought had ridden across the plains with a crusty old cowboy only to discover that it was a recently made project made to look that way. How do you age leather to make it appear as an antique or older, well used leather piece?? I just put some neatsfoot oil (a light coat) on it, then lay it out in full sun for a few days till I get the color I want. Just make sure that it isn't a "target" for birds I take it in at night so it doesn't get dewy or wet. Veg tan leather sun tans just like your own skin does. "Beat it up" a bit to distress it. You can also apply a resist, then antiquing gels/pastes to add a bit of patina. Afterwards you might want to put a small scuff or two on it to make it look very well used? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JohnD Report post Posted November 25, 2009 I found this online when I had the same questions a few weeks ago. It's an article from the Leather Crafters and Saddlers Journal by Wayne Zurl, that should answer it for you. Hope this helps. John Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
