I have the same one, is it really soft light tan leather? I haven't had any trouble with mine. I'm not sure what you mean by Gaps, Ray seems to know, try his idea, sounds good to me..I know Neetsfoot oil can be applied, and Classic Shaving has strop dressing, However, Tony Miller, Strop guy , say's it's not good to do...It's recommended that you rub your strop with the palm of you hand daily, I'm thiking the rubbing and the oils in your skin do the conditioning....Rich