Finishing Harness Leather Edges

[Alexis1234]

I am not happy with my edges on completed harness parts ...what am I doing wrong?  I've tried saddle soap, beeswax/paraffin combo, sanding, etc. I have a motorized burnisher, but my edges don't seem to stay nice/hold up no matter what I put on the edges. Any suggestions?  I'm using Hermann Oak harness leather. Thanks in advance.

[alpha2]

I just recently came into a motor for a motorized burnisher. I found almost immediately that too high a speed will actually lift leather bits as opposed to laying them down. I slowed down my burnishing and the edges got smoother. At this time, I wet the edge, burnish once. Only then do I sand and re-burnish with my secret sauce. Sometimes it takes three times or more to get the really nice edge that holds up. It depends on a lot, but a lot of it is the leather. My best result lately was with some new Edge Paint I got in Burgundy. I put it on, let it dry, then burnish it. I got some outstanding results with a wallet I just did for a neighbor. Much better than the same wallet I carry! Now I have to redo mine. Right, like that will happen.

Edited to clarify, I didn't get the edge paint in Burgundy, I got it in Cheyenne, the color is Burgundy. We must be careful on this forum, there are probably people on here from Burgundy!

Edited December 22, 2017 by alpha2

[Big Sioux Saddlery]

HO black harness is not the easiest to get good edges on.  For me, W & C produces better edges, as well as a nicer grain side finish for dressier grades of harness. HO is a more rugged, work type of harness IMO.  However, I know there are guys making fancy harness from HO, but I can get a finer finish on the Wickett.

[alpha2]

Silk purse, out of a sow's ear...where have I heard that?