Tip for Concealing scuffs on rawhide trim

[Saddlebag]

Nice show saddle came to the shop today with a rawhide and stainless laced piecrust cantle trim as well as on the gullet bridge. Altho the rawhide was basically in good shape there were numerous dirty grey abrasion marks that made it unsightly and certainly not suitable for the show ring. I gave it a good soaping with the white soap then using a small straight end paint brush, painted white shoe polish on the dark spots and allowed to dry. I then poured about 1/8 tsp into a saucer, added a few drops of water, then added a few granules of instant coffee, mixing until I had the right "cream color". I then "painted" all the rawhide trim for evenness of color. This finish may not be a permanent fix but with careful handling the saddle can certainly go back in the show ring. I shall later play around with adding some Tan Cote for more protection.

[alb]

I'd be interested in knowing how this holds up. I'm working on a saddle right now with white leather lace buckstitching that's scuffed and discolored.

I've just replaced the wool and replaced a couple of buckstitches on the side of the seat. Both were quite a job as this saddle maker believed in using a LOT of glue.

The difference between the old lacing and the new lace used to lace the skirts together is jarring. Makes me want replace all the buckstitching.

I'm not sure that painting something on would work as the original smooth finish of the lace is worn.

[Saddlebag]

I don't think I'd try it on the lacing. Perhaps you can "age" the new lacing. In this case the saddle had been lifted by the forks and cantle instead of the hand hold and skirts. The owner is pleased even knowing the results could be temporary but with careful handling it should get her thro the next show season. I'll touch it up again when the time comes. The Tan Cote test area makes it too yellow so I opted for a clear wax.