Oil Sides

[Ta2ooz]

So I am new and I am making my first vest, I took the pattern from an old one I have and I am using a black oil side. I chose this because it is going to be used in the weather and I don't really want to be concerned with It getting wet. It is quite thick and I am planning on attaching a liner to it somehow. Now to the questions. Is there a finish or possibly a cleaner to take the oily feeling off of the surface. And with the thickness of it and a liner I was thinking of lacing it in. Opinions?

[Tramps Leatherworking]

Ta2ooz, I use 3-4 oz full grain chrome tanned leather for all my vests and there has never been an issue with wearing them in inclimate weather. I use Fiebings Aussie leather conditioner on all my leathers and, trust me, I have rode in some very heavy rain storms in my 30+ years of riding. I have leathers that are 20 years old and still look almost new..

To answer your question regarding the oily feel, you might try Fiebings saddle soap...

[Ta2ooz]

Thanks Tramps, that's what I was thinking too. The oil side was on special and I wanted something pretty heavy, just in case God forbid, I hit the concrete. I liked the colour of it and it's more of a semi flat hot rod finish to it. I'll try some saddle soap.

[Tramps Leatherworking]

Thanks Tramps, that's what I was thinking too. The oil side was on special and I wanted something pretty heavy, just in case God forbid, I hit the concrete. I liked the colour of it and it's more of a semi flat hot rod finish to it. I'll try some saddle soap.

I know what your concern is, about 30 years ago I went down at 55 mph because of a deer, luckily the leathers held up quite well, no road rash...