How do I waterproof/spillproof coasters?

[Micah]

Now that I have some scrap veg belly, I was thinking of using it to make a set or two of decorative coasters. My question is what would be the best method and product(s) to use to waterproof/spillproof them? I have Fiebings pro oil dye, resolene, and edge dye, plus beeswax and pure neatsfoot right now but will be placing another order soon for more goodies, so if there's something else I should pick up this would be a good time to ask around

Also would it be a good idea to bind the leather to a hard backing (wood or similar). Most of my scrap is 7-9oz but I'm still concerned they could warp over time w/o a backing to keep them flat.

[CitizenKate]

I usually prefer wax, but for something that will certainly be exposed to liquid, I use lacquer. The ones I've finished with Neat-Lac have been impervious to liquid and condensation from the drinks that have been placed on them.

As for the backing, I would try some of that cork you can buy in sheets from Ben Franklin or Hobby Lobby.

Kate

Edited September 3, 2007 by CitizenKate

[Micah]

Cool, thx Kate! And now I know I'm not off my rocker with this coaster idea, LOL.

BTW, I have some of that Fiebings Leathercraft cement and was wondering just now if it is suitable for wood/leather bonding? Of course, I think some of that cork comes with an adhesive backing, too, if I go that route.

[CitizenKate]

Micah, that should work fine. Be sure to post the results - we'd love to see it.

Kate

[Micah]

yeah, will do! On the Neat-Lac, is there a major difference in result quality between the aerosol and bottled versions? I figured as with most sprays the aerosol is more convenient to apply but maybe has lower quality results. thx for your help

[ETW Grumpy]

I use Pecards to waterproof my stuff. It really beads water up. You can get it online.

[CitizenKate]

I haven't tried the aerosol package, but if you use the bottled version, put it on in multiple, very light coats to preserve a natural leather surface texture, and let it dry good between each coat. For me, preserving a natural appearance of the leather is very important.

yeah, will do! On the Neat-Lac, is there a major difference in result quality between the aerosol and bottled versions? I figured as with most sprays the aerosol is more convenient to apply but maybe has lower quality results. thx for your help

Grumpy, do you have a link to more information about this finish? It sounds like something we should know about.

Kate

I use Pecards to waterproof my stuff. It really beads water up. You can get it online.

Edited September 4, 2007 by CitizenKate

[Leather Bum]

I haven't tried the aerosol package, but if you use the bottled version, put it on in multiple, very light coats to preserve a natural leather surface texture, and let it dry good between each coat. For me, preserving a natural appearance of the leather is very important.

Grumpy, do you have a link to more information about this finish? It sounds like something we should know about.

Kate

Here's a link to the Pecard website: Pecard Website. I've never used Pecard leather products, and I don't know what they contain. . . Montana Pitch-Blend, on the other hand, lists their ingredients right on their website (so you don't have to buy it to find out): Montana Pitch-Blend Website.

L'Bum