Caring For Lambskin

[Will Ketchum]

I read the entire thread on caring for leather.  I t was very interesting but didn't help me with a problem I have.

I am a Master Mason.  In the old day the masonic aprons that we wear in lodge were made from lambskin.  Now days, except for the high end aprons, most are commonly made from various synthetics.

I bought 2 very nice lambskin aprons form about the 30s off E-Bay.  Both have very small yellow spots which I assume is mildew.  One has some cracking like it might have dried out.  These are white with fabric trim.

I sure could use some advice on cleaning and caring for these nice old aprons.

Will Ketchum

[FEATHERS]

Hi Will,To clean mildew,try white vinegar or lemon juice,then use warm soapy water.Feathers

[Don Nix]

try a mild oxalic acid (leather bleach) wash. use a dauber on the dark yellow spots to add a little emphesis on te stubborn spots.
 But be careful and check it before you do so.
 Those yellow spots could be where the lambskin has begun to harden.
If you are going to try make the stiff  parts supple try using  lanolin rather than one of the leather oils.
if done carefully you can sometimes bring it back to a degree with staining it.

[Advertising]

[GunClick Rick]

How about dampin it and sprinkle some bakin soda on it for awhile then go back and brush it..I'd like to see pic of those..

[Will Ketchum]

Thanks for the cleaning tips.  I'll try some.  The aprons are white.  The one that has some cracking appears to need some oil of some sort.  I have some Lexol leather conditioner would that darken the white?

Will

[Don Nix]

i USE lexol alot but you need to try it on the lambskin in aplace where its not noticiable just to make sure.
 Lanolin is derived from sheep and will work well  but as with Lexol you need to be careful.
 After you get the skin supple then you can worry about whitening it..
 Using powders and a brush will blot up iols and dirt  but it will build up  in th epores if your not craeful..
restoration of old leather carn br tricky,patience is the key