How To Restore A III Eveready Case

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I just picked up a III camera case on ebay "as is" for $4. It looks like with a little work it can be restored to decent shape but has a few problems. It is very very dry and a little dusty with minor cracks to the outside finished areas in a few spots but otherwise the case is fully intact. Also at one time somebody replaced the leather strap with a plastic one and attached it to the case. I figure a showmaker remove it and attach a new one if I can fine one. There doesn't appear to be any mold. Any suggestions. Thanks

-- Gerry Widen (gwiden@alliancepartners.org), December 17, 2001

Answers

Neatsfoot oil. There are several blends available that will rejuvenate leather, but many of them will leave the leather feeling oily... So look for one that claims it is a "non-greasy" formula. Many varieties can be found at equestrian supply houses. Once rejuvenated, then you can treat it with a good leather dye or glaze, which should seal it and leave it nicely finished.

-- Jack Flesher (jbflesher@msn.com), December 17, 2001.

Try a good cleaning with Saddle Soap which you can buy almost anywhere. Put it on with a damp brush and wipe it off right away. Do it a couple of times and rub it with a soft cloth when it dries. This should clean and restore it pretty well. Then maybe Neats foot oil or Mink oil. But they may leave it feeling slightly oily if you are not careful. There are some good silicon sprays that will seal, preserve and waterproof it. And of course there are leather dyes around that will restore or enhance the color but need to be handled carefully. Good luck.

-- Don (wgpinc@yahoo.com), December 17, 2001.

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