Thread: My First Strop by a Local Leather Maker

Please tell me what y'all think! I bought this and am REALLY hoping I can strop with it. It's 3x24" black latigo leather with some other kin of leather on the back. Please, let me know if this was a mistake before I make another one stropping on it. Thanks in advance!

I think it would be fine. I would clean up the edges a little first so that it doesn't hang on the upturned edge. It look like it would have a good drew.

I see no reason it shouldn't work.

I'm no strop expert, but I think the suede side would be used in place of the linen or cotton webbing. That side may be great for paste? Hopefully someone with more experience with suede will chime in.
Looks like a good purchase to me!

The non smooth side looks like an unfinished leather, not sure I would use it.

The rough tan side looks like a very loose split, whatever it is, it is more akin to suede than leather and very ragged - personally I would not use it, especially not with paste.

Regards,
Neil

As it is, it appears you have a razor knife combo strop. The suede side would be great for knives. If you're handy you can sand the rough side down a bit and glue the appropriate linen to the leather. You can buy light weight canvas at fabric stores or Walmart. I've made many a good strop that way. They work well.