roughout leather description

[Bruce Wayne]

what exaclty is roughout leather? is it just another name for suede?
thanx!!!
Charlie

 

[bigshoe]

Rough out is top grain leather with the flesh or rough side used on the out side. True suede is top grain with the grain buffed off. most suede is not suede but sueded splits. Splits are are made when a hide is split to the thickness required and the left overs are tanned seperatly.
Tom

 

[Bruce Wayne]

this is the reason that i ask
http://www.americanequipage.com/servlet/the-467/New--U.S.-WWII/Detail

i am thinking that i am going to sand them down & dye them a medium to dark brown.
thanx!!!
Charlie

 

[bigshoe]

They are described in the ad as a suede. Most likely a sueded split. If you want to dye them do not sand them. Dye them and then use a product called Gum Tragacanth to smooth them out. Double buckles were issued undyed and changed in color quickly from use and waterproofing.
Tom

 

[Bruce Wayne]

They are described in the ad as a suede. Most likely a sueded split. If you want to dye them do not sand them. Dye them and then use a product called Gum Tragacanth to smooth them out. Double buckles were issued undyed and changed in color quickly from use and waterproofing.
Tom

how much Gum Tragacanth would i need?
thanx!!!
Charlie

 

[bigshoe]

Tandy's sells a 4oz bottle for a couple of bucks more then enough.
Tom

 

[Ghostsoldier]

I used mink oil on mine, and after a few wearings, they now have that vintage "been all over Europe" patina....
Rob