Restoring Dry Leather

[Jason311]

Hey guys,

I made a search last night and couldn't find what I was looking for.

I have two sides of 4-5 oz veg tan that are very dry, but otherwise clean - both front and back, and would like to get the most out of it.

My main issue is alot of curling once dyed - even after creme and oil, it still curls up. The other issue is that my edges look "crispy" once the project is completed. I've attached a pic, so you can get the idea.

Can I oil the leather prior to dyeing - will that even solve anything?

Thanks!

Jason

Edited July 12, 2014 by Jason311

[Tinkerton]

I've dealt with dry leather too. I tend to use solvent dyes, so I try to lightly oil it a few times before I dye, and that seems to work pretty well. If the whole hides are dry, dampen and condition them multiple times before you ever start working with them or cutting them up. Hope this helps.

Tinkerton

[Jason311]

I'll give those tips a go. I was also wondering if it was the black dye. I've heard that black spirit dye can be pretty harsh and difficult to manage, but I'll oil up before I dye next time.

Thanks!