Hot Creasing, How Hot?

[rawcustom]

I'm starting to experiment more with my adjustable creaser and am seeing that hot creasing seems to be the accepted method. I've read over the debate on heat sources, but I haven't seen much as to exactly how hot you want your creaser. The only thing I saw was "warm to the touch" which doesn't sound like it would do much of anything.

Also if the ideal heat is something in the 100-150F range (?), why not use a hot water bath in place of direct flame? Obviously you would need to wipe off the water before starting, but you wouldn't risk overheating and burning.

[DavidL]

Id like to know as well for creasing and for edge burnishing.

For edge burnishing I tried a soldering iron and it charred the edges giving it an interesting look with the iron. When I touched the iron it gave me a burn immediately so it was already too hot. Probably hot to the touch or can't leave your finger on it for more than a second without hurting yourself is the right temp although not very scientific.

Would any one know if edge burnishing the iron needs to be done edge paint or edge dye first or after? Will the paint burn in contact with the iron?

[fivewayswelshcobs]

I used the old fashioned method of spit on the finger then touch the creaser, if it sizzles then it is plenty hot enough, if burns then allow to cool or dunk in water to cool and if no sizzle warm a bit more. It does depend on the leather as well so always try on a small piece of scrap to see if it burns the surface rather than creasing it as the finish may affect the required heat.

[rawcustom]

After more research and experimenting I can venture a guess that the heat depends more on type of leather, thickness, and depth of crease desired. I did find that I like the near burnt finish of a hot crease. Seemed like once you got it fairly warm it left an almost burnished looking face on the inside of the crease. Does this sound right to all of you hot creasing leather?

[billybopp]

I don't know about other types of leather, but on plain ol' veg tan it will certainly burn if too hot, then burnish/glaze if a little cooler. So it has to be "just right". Next time I try it, I'll break out my infrared thermometer and see if I can give you an actual temperature.

Bill