Belt Scarring

[OldLincoln]

I have a few belts and they all seem to get scarred by the buckle taking the color off. How can I stop it from happening and how do I hide it (shoe polish doesn't work)?

[jlottmc]

You can fix it with leather dye, and sealer. Tandy Leather has some that I've been using, and I have not had any problems after I seal the dye. I've been using three coats of Fiebing's USMC Black dye and the Eco-Flo sealer. As for preventing it from happening, the only things I can think of are to wear the belt a bit looser, or take more care to keep the buckle from dragging on the belt. There are other leather suppliers that will likely be cheaper than Tandy, but I use them because they have stores locally. Google will be your friend if you decide to order online. Leather dye can be had in many colors, multiple coats will make for a dark finish. Be sure that the previous coat is dry before applying another, same with the sealer. You can get away with one coat of sealer, but I prefer two sometimes three. Use the dye somewhere you don't mind having that color, it can get a bit messy if you're not careful. I also use the foam brushes that are cheaply available in the paint section anywhere.

[JFootin]

I use roller buckles on my gun belts. Problem solved. And with a stiff gun belt the roller makes it much, much easier to buckle and unbuckle.

[OldLincoln]

Thanks, guys. I'll try to find leather dye and sealer for damage already incurred. I thought about the roller buckle but mine are riveted and I shied away from it.

Darn POS anyway!!!! It should already come that way and not need any tinkering to make it right!!! Don't ever buy one of these cause it's no good!!!!! @%$^#%^^& :)

[jlaudio29]

I would shy away from USMC black from feibings, it has a tendancy to bleed, sometimes even with sealer, for sure with out. Personally id Recommend Fiebings Pro oil dye, it does not dry out the leather as much and does not rub off or bleed.

Also post some pictures of the trauma on the belt im curious to see the extent.

[jlottmc]

I had that bleeding problem but it goes away after the sealer and dye cure properly. That's the only dye I use, then again I haven't and don't cut much leather.

[jlaudio29]

The "properly cure" doesnt really happen with the USMC black, trust me i make holsters and belts for a living. I have a blem holster that i just picked up off the floor and rubbed my hand on it and dye residue rubbed off. The sealer will stop it however the sealer can wear off over time or the dye can penetrate the sealer (test this by sealing something and then laying some dye on top youll notice the dye penetrates the sealer, its nasty stuff)

With Pro oil dye once its dry which is about 5-10 minutes after dying, it does not rub off, unless your dip dying which may take more time for the entire piece to dry.

Also the leather is not to blame for the USMC black rubbing off, i only use Premium herman oak leather.

[jlottmc]

Hmmm, no doubt, but for my meager needs it works and I have had no problems lately. FYI, the part that bled was the rough side, but it stopped. I made a couple of multi-tool sheaths, and a tuckable handcuff case for a buddy of mine. Like I said, I don't do much with leather. I would like to learn some things though. I will probably change suppliers, and materials when I use up what I have on hand. I have a couple of projects lined up, and no time to do them.

[jlaudio29]

Yah, on your next purchase grab some pro oil dye, tandy and every other supplier should sell it.

If you ever have any questions feel free to shoot me a pm.

[jlottmc]

Sweet, thanks.