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Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: TSP on July 18, 2008, 03:37:00 PM

Title: Tips for preventing leather from bleeding?
Post by: TSP on July 18, 2008, 03:37:00 PM

Got a new backquiver and the dye is bleeding out...can't put it on without the strap leaving a sizable red/brown stain.  For you leathersmiths out there, is there a reliable process/procedure for preventing the leather from bleeding and then treating it with some kind of leather protectant?  

I thought about soaking it in multiple tubs of water until the water was clear, but this quiver has some rattler skin embedded in it and I wouldn't want to damage that.

Title: Re: Tips for preventing leather from bleeding?
Post by: M60gunner on July 18, 2008, 11:53:00 PM

I had the same problem with Latago leather. This may sound strange but I used Olive oil and an old towel. I got the idea from a Tandy rep some years back.. It took awhile and a bit of elbow grease but I was able to get the towel to a point that no dye came out. I have done it since on other quivers I made.
One would think the oil would would make it worst (I did) but it did work plus the olive oil is natural and has no petro chemicals in it to crack the leather. I used the cheap olive oil.

Title: Re: Tips for preventing leather from bleeding?
Post by: wislnwings on July 19, 2008, 08:49:00 AM

I have the same problem with my side quiver using it for 3D down here in our heat and humidity.  I might have to try the olive oil.

Title: Re: Tips for preventing leather from bleeding?
Post by: defiant on July 19, 2008, 12:18:00 PM

Or you can buy a leather sealer from Tandy or craft store.

Title: Re: Tips for preventing leather from bleeding?
Post by: TSP on July 19, 2008, 04:58:00 PM

I've heard that leather sealer only works well if you first get rid of the 'extra' (surface) dye in the leather...otherwise it'll just start coming back out after awhile.  

Have to wonder how the experts do it...especially when there's stuff like snakeskin or other potentially sensitive add-ons involved.

Title: Re: Tips for preventing leather from bleeding?
Post by: TSP on July 20, 2008, 08:53:00 AM

Well, guess I'll just have to check with some leathergood sites for ideas.  Thanks anyway.

Title: Re: Tips for preventing leather from bleeding?
Post by: Lin Rhea on July 20, 2008, 09:27:00 AM

Guys,
      My leather guy seals all of my knife sheaths with a 50-50 mix of viscous oil and Balistol. The viscous oil thins the Balistol and the Balistol has acid neutralizing properties. He has a vat that he just dips them in and lets them dry for a couple days.
      Carbon steel will rust pretty fast in an untreated sheath, so he tries to help all he can.
      I know there are other leather sealants, but I dont know what they are called at the moment.
                         Lin