Question for those who've played more with leather than I

[swordmage]

Does anyone know a good way to stiffen/harden leather?

See, we've got a bunch of leather left over from making the bookmarks that were favors. It's 3 oz, I think. Maybe 4. (Whichever is the lightest that Tandy carries.)

At any rate, as the new White Wolf loom showed up recently, and all the cards we've got don't quite fit domnall's hand, I want to make new ones. And the leather is way too flimsy, even doubled up.

Help is rather appreciated.

Comments

[snotblossom.livejournal.com]

Boil it? Wax?

[nicodeamos.livejournal.com]

I would bake it and smother it in wax or if you're lazy like me just dip it in wax. . . Micheal's sells wax pretty cheap.

[dverning.livejournal.com]

Depends on how stiff you're looking and if you mind discoloration. As a note, it is much easier to stiffen heavy leather. It's unlikely that you'll have perfect results with lighter leather.

Cardboard stiff can be achieved via baking. Use about 250 and a couple hours if you want to avoid too much discoloration. This process tends to curl so you'll want to put something heavy on top of it. (Make sure that item is oven-safe...) You will get some edge warping and wave, but not too much.

Armor stiff can be achieved by boiling. Drop the leather in a pot that's at a roiling boil. Keep the temp up and let it sit in that for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This curls/warps a good bit less than baking but it will still happen. Early in the drying process just flip the item over every 30 minutes or so to avoid curling. (Less time if it is a really dry day.) If it still wants to warp, put something heavy on it.

Leather wax works quite well for minor stiffening or that extra little bit. However, a cheaper and even nicer result can be gotten by using an acrylic floor wax. Future is a good brand if you want smooth and glossy finish.