Re: [BKARTS] Odd leather question

[William Minter <wminter@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

On Jun 22, 2004, at 1:17 PM, MelissaJay Craig wrote:

> Does anyone have a good method for permanently dulling the glossy
> surface of some goatskins, without damage to the leather?  If it
> helps, I'm using a Harmatan skin, grade 2, dark brown, and I want it
> to have a very matte appearance.
******************************
Some of the other replies have been shocking, but maybe that's what you
are looking for.

The skin may have been dried with the grain side against glass. To
reduce the gloss, simply wet the leather with water (distilled is
probably better) and allow it to dry. It should be thoroughly wetted --
I use a clean sponge. Before wetting, you could "board" the leather --
roll it grain side to grain side with a fair amount of pressure (in
some case a wooden board has been used) -- this will help raise the
grain and dull the surface. The piece can be wetted after boarding.
Good Luck,
Bill Minter

William Minter Bookbinding & Conservation, Inc.
4364 Woodbury Pike
Woodbury, PA  16695
814-793-4020
Fax:   814-793-4045
Email:    wminter@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

            ***********************************************

                      Spring[binding]Hath Sprung
        Worldwide Springback Bind-O-Rama and Online Exhibition
           Full information at <http://www.philobiblon.com>
                  ENTRY DEADLINE -- September 1, 2004

     Book_Arts-L FAQ and Archive at: <http://www.philobiblon.com>
            ***********************************************