Larry was etching a leather belt the other day and I should have passed on this advice.
When cutting or etching leather it’s best to soak it in water first. I saturate it so the burn stays localized and the surrounding material doesn’t char. Also, immediately after I etch I’ll use a toothbrush on it under running water. This is to get the burn off so it doesn’t permanently stain the leather. Lastly, to restore the suppleness to the leather after the trauma of the burn I’ll rub in Neatsfoot oil.
Leather is organic so etching it at the Shop is fine too.
