i recently started using 4-5 oz leather with the rough side out that i steam to stiffen. gives the look of suede but the fuzzies add nice grip texture after being steamed. end product is a little darker than you start with but i like it.its also a good way to form the leather to the wood and whatever rest you use, just spritz a little water on it then run an iron over it for a few seconds, repeat until its as tight fitting and as rough as you like.