After 3 tries, I finally compared using a bone folder to a plastic one on my leather covers.

The bone folder gave me a much sharper, cleaner crease without any risk of scratching the leather, so has anyone else found a specific tool that made a huge difference in their finishing work?

3 comments

3 Comments

thead443mo ago

Actually, bone folders can sometimes leave marks on really soft leather if you press too hard. I've had better luck with a Teflon folder for those kinds of projects, it just glides. The right tool really does depend on the leather type.

rose_hart313mo ago

Yeah the right tool thing is so true, I ruined a veg tan project once going too hard with bone lol.

mason3612mo agoTop Commenter

Wait, do you really think Teflon folders are better for soft veg tan? @thead44, I've had the opposite experience honestly. I found Teflon can sometimes have just enough friction to scratch softer leathers if there's any dust or grit on your workspace. I actually stick with bone folders for veg tan projects because they warm up and smooth out better over time. Different tools for different hands I guess, but I'm not sold on Teflon being the answer for soft leathers.