Beveling Edges On Chromexcel/softer Leathers?

[jk215]

Just started working with some Chromexcel and I love it except for how crappy my edges look after beveling. It seems like its tearing the edges and looks terrible. Do bevelers come in different sizes or applications (hard vs soft leather)? I dont know much about the beveler I have now since I bought it in a lot of tools. Thanks!

[Art]

I generally skive and then roll the edge. You can also apply binding to the edge instead of rolling. You can also use hot irons, color and wax on the edges to finish them.

Art

[KAYAK45]

Hi and good question!

Do a search here on "skiving" and see more than you need on nice chrome edges.

As art said, skive and roll to a perfect edge.

Kevin

[Leatherimages]

I use Ron's Tools french edgers on chrome tanned boot leathers for a "skant" skive.

A size #2 really works well for one layer being stiched atop another.

[Art]

I purchased all of Ron's edgers at Sheridan years ago for a fantastic price, still a healthy chunk, but really great price. This has allowed me to experiment a bit and now I find I use them to do things I wouldn't even try before. They make a series of "Montana" edgers that will edge chrome tan and even 2 to 3 oz book leather. Really "floppy" chrome tan can still be a problem for even the best edger so placing a piece of wood or metal bar on the leather just inside the edge to stabilize the edge will make it easier with any edger, ditto beveling or scant skiving with a French edger. A piece of tempered plate glass works well in place of a steel bar and is easier to put pressure on to keep the edge steady.

Art