mellykelly Report post Posted May 6, 2013 I'm very new at leatherwork and out of necessity need to make my own miniature pony halters as they are too difficult to find. This might be a stupid question but can someone please tell me how I am supposed to treat the underside of the leather to take that suadey feel out of it. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Cyberthrasher Report post Posted May 6, 2013 If I'm understanding your question right, it sounds like you have a really fleshy piece of leather (the flesh side is the underside). A lot of lower quality leathers get really stringy on the flesh. I grab my sharp knife and shave off as much of the big stuff as possible, then sand it down a bit by hand with some 220 grit or so. From there I wet it down with a sponge, grab my bone folder, and rub vigorously until it's nice and smooth. From there you can seal it with your topcoat if you desire. I have no experience with horse equipment though, so I'm not sure if that's something you'd want to do. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mellykelly Report post Posted May 7, 2013 Thanks that's pretty much what I meant. It's just fluffy on the underside and while it doesn't have to be perfect like the top it needs to be smoother. I have bought a cow hide (not cheap) to use. Should I do the whole thing before I cut it or just as I make it up. Sorry to sound dense but there is very limited instruction in australia and I'm starting this from scratch. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Dwight Report post Posted May 7, 2013 Melly, . . . might just want to take the question down a few forum lines into the saddles and tack section. Bunch of really good guys & gals there, . . . probably get a better answer quicker. May God bless, Dwight Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites