leather edge sealing

[jonarthur]

Hello all, My first order of targets is due out on Tuesday and I have overlooked the sealing of the cut edges. I wont have time to order edge coat or simular so is there something else thats readily available from Hombase, B&Q, Wickes etc. Or even something that I might already have eg varnish fixothix etc. Also is there a clear boot polish etc that will remove the surface scratches they are very minor.
All help appreciated.
Regards Jon

[Tiffers]

Hmmm, trying to get my brain working here.......

Most of the stuff I have used in the past for staining and sealing the edges of the leather has had to be ordered in. I think that anything you might find in your local DIY shops might colour the edge but not put a polish on it.

Peter mentioned that you might be able to get gum tragcanth from any of the specialist cooking shops who sell bits and pieces for icing cakes. I think that might be your best bet.

Tiffers

[MotorbikeMan]

Hmmm, trying to get my brain working here.......

Most of the stuff I have used in the past for staining and sealing the edges of the leather has had to be ordered in. I think that anything you might find in your local DIY shops might colour the edge but not put a polish on it.

Peter mentioned that you might be able to get gum tragcanth from any of the specialist cooking shops who sell bits and pieces for icing cakes. I think that might be your best bet.

Tiffers
I can supply Gum Tragacanth in powdered form which you mix with a little water to a paste. Is this any use for edge sealing?

[Tiffers]

I can supply Gum Tragacanth in powdered form which you mix with a little water to a paste. Is this any use for edge sealing?


I dont know if you could get it to Jon quick enough MBM as he needs to despatch these on Tuesday.

I dont know if its the right stuff either as I have never used it personally. I am sure Peter will be along to confirm otherwise.

Tiffers

[PS_Bond]

I *think* gum T is gum T is gum T... I'd need to dry out some & reconstitute to be sure!

[Tiffers]

How exactly do you use it Peter?

Tiffers

[helmar4578]

Tiffers---Gum Tragacanth is readily available from Tandy or The Leather Factory here in the states. A company named "Drake" puts it up in quart containers. It is excellent for use in burnishing the edges of belts, holsters, and sheaths made of vegetable tanned leathers.such as cow and horse hide. After the edge has been cut or sanded level and edged, apply the dye you desire onto the sanded edge and let dry. This hardens the undressed edge considerably. When dry apply the gum tragacanth to the edge with a finger tip so that the edge appears wet and absorbs some of the gum. Let the gum lap over the edged section a little so that it can prepare the leather for creasing. When the wet appearance disappears and looks dull, you rub the edge briskly with a smooth object (bone folder, fountain pen barrel, etc.) and it will lay the fibers down and start to create a glazed look. On occasion you might have to make a second application but wait until the first has dried. After you have reached the desired burnish it is always best to seal the edge when sealing the sheath. Don't let the appearance of the trag disturb you, it is rather goopy----really! Sandy

[jonarthur]

Thankyou for the help and I hasve ordered some gum T and thankyou to helmar4578 for the instructions.
Regards Jon

[Tiffers]

Thanks for that info Sandy! I use 2 other methods for colouring and sealing the edges, one at work and another one at home which is actually my prefered method. At work we use a dark brown/black powder dye, dissolved in hot water. We make this in bulk and just top up our daily use jars as and when its needed. Its applied to the raw edges then polished up with a bit of canvas rugging. Its an ok way to do it and if you have decent leather and spend a few minutes polishing then you can get a reasonable result. I do find though that it can go a bit "grey" after a little while because the colour isnt being held on the edge.

At home I use the same mix of dye powder but its also got pearl glue dissolved in it. I suspect this has a similar effects the the Gum T and holds the colour there. When I apply it though I heat it up to dissolve the glue again then polish it well with the canvas again. I find that this is a really superior finish.

Tiffers