Oil after Tan Kote?

[JDHall]

I recently made a name plate for a dog collar, which I did with pyrography.  I finished it with a coating of Tan Kote, and I really like how it looks, however it's stiffer than I'd like, and I'm worried about cracking later on.  I was wondering if you can apply oil after Tan Kote? If so, what would you recommend? I would like to avoid too much darkening if possible...

edited to add: I used veg tan leather

Thanks!!

Edited September 19, 2018 by JDHall

[Big Sioux Saddlery]

Tan Kote, while not as heavy a finish as Resolene, will hinder the absorption of oil, at least until it is worn off.  Is it possible to lightly oil the piece from the flesh side?  Any oil you apply will change the color.  To what degree depends on the leather itself, how much oil you apply, and possibly the type of oil.  I only use pure NF and a blend of NF called Harness oil, which has something added to repel rodents from chewing on whatever you oil with it.

[JDHall]

9 hours ago, Big Sioux Saddlery said:

Tan Kote, while not as heavy a finish as Resolene, will hinder the absorption of oil, at least until it is worn off.  Is it possible to lightly oil the piece from the flesh side?  Any oil you apply will change the color.  To what degree depends on the leather itself, how much oil you apply, and possibly the type of oil.  I only use pure NF and a blend of NF called Harness oil, which has something added to repel rodents from chewing on whatever you oil with it.

Yes, I can oil the flesh side...I'll give it a go with some olive oil...thank you!

[chrisash]

Might be better with NFO which is animal based rather than vegetable based

[Big Sioux Saddlery]

I agree with Chrisash.  I have never used any type of vegetable oil, although I know some top makers do.  I haven't been impressed seeing the saddles that come in the shop, belonging to people who say they use olive oil, or peanut oil, or anything BUT neatsfoot oil. 

[Sheilajeanne]

Yes, olive oil is a very heavy oil, and tends to go solid at room temperature, so would not absorb into the leather well. Neatsfoot or a neatsfoot blend intended for tack is the way to go!