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Need help with finish

C

Craig Daniel

Joined
Feb 17, 2016
Messages
1,527
I just made 3 new sheaths and have some questions that I hope somebody can answer, I put one coat of 100% neatsfoot oil over the dye and let it sit overnight, I then put 2 coats of Montana pitch blend on and I can not even get a sheen on the leather. Do I need a different top coat over the pitch blend or eliminate the pitch altogether? Any help and advice will be greatly appreciated.
 
I've never used Montana pitch so I'm not sure what can go on top of it. After dye & oil I usually use a lacquer based finish then Fiebing's Tan Kote.
 
I have used Montana Pitch Blend on several sheaths, then buffed it with a soft cloth, and got somewhat of a sheen, but not sure how "Shinny" you want it to be. If anything I would think the neatsfoot oil is the problem. John
 
When you use pitch blend (or any beeswax blend really), you need to give it time to penetrate. It is really easy to put more on than the leather will take, leaving a heavy surface residue that will not polish well. If the surface feels pretty gooey (technical term), try to use a little heat from a hair dryer to help it penetrate. It will polish best when there is only a very light film left on top. A soft cloth and rapid rubbing should give you a nice sheen (not glossy bright).
Randy
 
I really appreciate all you guys helping me out I did get a sheen today on the sheaths, I guess I had not let them sit long enough before buffing with a cloth. Thanks so much!
 
Neatsfoot oil can prevent a good shine from coming about. It and other oil(s)/wax mixtures leave a greasy finish behind sometimes and normal shoe polish and other top coats won't always stick to the leather correctly leaving a splotchy or dull colored finish with it rubbing off and just looking ugly. Have had it happen dozens of times on my boots, it's ugly and messy. Put little coats on at a time and don't be afraid to use a little heat from a hair dryer or vent.
 
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