Harness Leather Tack

[CWR]

I have been getting some requests for headstalls and reins. I have never worked with harness leather, after rubbing the edges do you treat it with anything?

Thanks,

CW

[Aggiebraider]

Yes and no...no you wont use any dye or edge kote to dye the edges, but you can use gum tragacanth to smooth it up a bunch and help with burnishing. Then, just oil the whole piece real well.

Hope thats what you were looking for,

CW

[CWR]

Thanks, I'm getting good edges with paste saddle soap, canvas and a big can of elbow grease. I probabably wasn't very clear in my post, but what if any dressing should be used after the edges are done. Are you just using neatsfoot?

CW

[Aggiebraider]

I usually just use olive oil. If it is harness leather I like to use a harness oil that weavers sells, but I cant remember what they call it. You basically just dip the piece in the oil for a couple seconds, pull it out, wipe the excess off, put it in a plastic bag and set it in the sun for a couple days. The piece will be broke in like youve been using it for 10 years. Works great on split reins.

CW

[Tinneal]

I made a set of harness bridles and 24' lines for a customer, and the most enjoyable thing about working with the Wickett & Craig leather was the lack of inputs I had to use on the leather! Just some simple edging, glycerine soap and an old piece of jeans and it was finished!