Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: DC on October 06, 2017, 06:33:52 pm

Title: Handle wrap finish
Post by: DC on October 06, 2017, 06:33:52 pm

I wrapped this handle with the wrapping from an old tennis racquet. I like the old look but I was left with the raw leather on the ends. I built up and wrapped it with upholstery thread soaked in CA and it looks, well, OK but there must be a better way of finishing a rough edge like this. Any suggestions? Examples?

Title: Re: Handle wrap finish
Post by: PatM on October 06, 2017, 06:42:26 pm

Typically an edge is skived if you want  the finished side of the leather to taper to the wood smoothly.

Title: Re: Handle wrap finish
Post by: DC on October 06, 2017, 06:54:44 pm

Thanks Pat. This wrap was pretty poor quality leather and I didn't think I could skive it but after you mentioned it I went back and tried it on a piece of scrap and it went OK. Now all I have to do is find another old tennis racquet that doesn't say "Spalding" on it.

Title: Re: Handle wrap finish
Post by: Pat B on October 06, 2017, 07:56:43 pm

If you wet the leather a little you can probably burnish those edges smooth. Once dry a good hand rub with leather treatment like Montana Pitch Blend or Mink Oil will refresh the leather.

Title: Re: Handle wrap finish
Post by: mikekeswick on October 07, 2017, 01:27:16 am

Yes you should burnish it for a tidy edge. Use a spot of leather finish or a similar dye and rub the edge back and forth with a piece of antler or similar. A skieved edge would look a mess after time and use. It would be too thin to withstand any 'abuse'.