Leather for moccasins

[phoenix511]

I have several sides of 3-4oz veg tanned leather. I'm considering making a pair of center-seamed moccasins and I wonder what the Forum thinks about using this kind of leather?

Bags made of this leather get hard when wet, but eventually soften up. Would moccasins get uncomfortable?

 

[John Wasmuth]

Might be a bit to stiff for mocs and yer feet will scream at you. Make good soles for them but the uppers would not bend right with your feet and cause some really really sore spots. Bark tan, or veggie tan, is much tighter fibers that dont give as well and will more than likely wear blisters onto whatever part of the foot comes in constant contact from friction. Just my .02's worth.

 

[David W.]

I have several sides of 3-4oz veg tanned leather. I'm considering making a pair of center-seamed moccasins and I wonder what the Forum thinks about using this kind of leather?

Bags made of this leather get hard when wet, but eventually soften up. Would moccasins get uncomfortable?

Absolutely! You need to use elk, deer, moose, or buffalo for moc's.

 

[LRB]

Since you have plenty of that leather, rake off the smooth side with a file card, and try it. Oil them well with mineral oil, and hand work them, twisting and bending. Wear socks, and I would bet they will work. Not the best, but good enough. You will never know without trying.