Finishing a belt

[TomWisc]

I have just started doing leather working and have learned so much from all of you! I made a few belts and am using Fiebing's Pro Dye on both sides of the belts. My question is since I dye the back of the belt should I put something over the dye on the back side of the belt? I was thinking of Super Sheen or what ever you all use. I don't want the dye to stain clothes. Here is a picture of a couple of belts I recently made.

[garypl]

I would absolutely finish the back side of the dyed belt to prevent dye rubbing off.  I normally spray a 50/50 mixture of Resolene and water.

Nice looking belts!

Gary

[KingsCountyLeather]

Really nice looking belts.

 

[charon]

I use Tan Kote for the Flesh Side of my belts. Had good results with it .

[TomWisc]

Thanks for the suggestions and compliments on my belts. I have both Resolene  & Tan Kote but have not used either yet. I will try both and see how they turn out.

[alpha2]

personally, I've had better results with Resolene over Tan Kote. That's just me. 

 

[TomWisc]

Can Resolene be applies without using a sprayer? 

 

[TomWisc]

I guess the other question I should ask is do you all dye the flesh side of your belts? If not, do you apply any type of finish to the flesh side ?

[garypl]

52 minutes ago, TomWisc said:

I guess the other question I should ask is do you all dye the flesh side of your belts? If not, do you apply any type of finish to the flesh side ?

Resolene can be applied with a brush, but using a cheap HF airbrush makes it so much easier to apply evenly.  Resolene is more water resistant than Tan Kote, so if someone is sweating a lot I think Resolene will be more durable.

I normally use a liner on the inside of belts and I may or may not dye the inside liner - all depends on what look you want.  If I am not going to dye the liner, I dye the belt first, then glue the liner on, trim the liner and then stitch it up, followed by final finish.

Gary

[TomWisc]

Thanks Gary,

I will try the resolene. I don't have an airbrush yet but do have a simple sprayer that I think will work. I was thinking about adding a liner but was worried it would be too thick. However, I think it is a good idea to try different techniques to decide what I like best. The liner would give the belt a great professional look. I am not looking to sell what I make, just be nice to make a few special things for my sons and a few friends. A little extra effort usually produces a better end result. Thanks for your suggestions.

Tom