How to Thin Neatsfoot Oil

Pure neatsfoot oil is made from cattle's bone marrow and has a yellow, fatty consistency. This oil is used to shine, soften, polish and preserve leather. You can also find petroleum- or silicone-based neatsfoot oil, but this kind of oil will break down the leather fibers and any stitching. You don't want to add anything to pure neatsfoot oil to thin it as this oil already has a thin consistency. You want to thin the oil by application. If you don't, you may inadvertently apply too much oil at once, clogging the pores of your leather and making it slimy.

Things You'll Need

Sponge
Water
Bucket
Glycerin soap

Microwave-safe cup
Thick-bristled brush, cotton ball or clean washrag
Leather conditioner

Instructions

- 1
  Set your leather item in the sun. This make the material easier to work with and will allow the oil to soak in better.
- 2
  Wipe down the leather with a sponge and warm water. The sponge should be damp, not dripping.
- 3
  Clean the leather with a small amount of glycerin soap and water on your sponge. Rinse and squeeze out the sponge regularly in a bucket of warm water.
- 4
  Pour a small to medium amount of pure neatsfoot oil into a microwave-safe cup. You can always pour more in it if needed. Warm the cup and oil in the microwave for a few seconds. This will help it soak into the leather better.
- 5
  Dip a thick-bristled brush, cotton ball or clean washrag into the cup of oil. Spread a thin layer of the oil onto the leather. Allow the oil to soak into the leather between coats. You will want to apply three or so coats.
- 6
  Wipe any excess oil off the leather with a clean, dry washrag. Follow the oiling with a leather conditioner.

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