Working with Shagreen

Ian · 30 Apr 2009

Hi

Anyone have any experience working with shagreen?

I have been asked to make a box covered in shagreen and was wanting to know about some techniques and what type of glue / finish to use.

I have sourced some hides and am quite keen to take on the challenge but need some help.

Or perhaps someone knows of a book out there with some help.
Cheers

Ian

Calpol · 30 Apr 2009

I've never used it myself but have done a bit of research 'cos I've always wanted to try it, but I was told it's very difficult to cut by a design lecturer, who I don't think ever used it herself... Ebay reckons it's easy to cut with scissors though :-k

mahking51 · 30 Apr 2009

GmBh **** Tools sell it so might be able to give you some info.
Cheers,
Martin

Mr T · 1 May 2009

Hi

I have not used Shagreen myself but I know Silver Lining in Cheshire use it often. They are fairly friendly and may be of help, http://www.silverliningfurniture.co.uk/

Having seen them using it in their workshop it looks difficult to cut!

Chris

Ian · 2 May 2009

Thanks guys

The guy on ebay said he would send a few offcuts to try out so it will at least give me and idea.

Ian

parbajtor · 24 Mar 2011

I've used it before for wrapping katana handles. It works well using ordinary PVA. I would recommend that if not using shagreen as a textile (wallets etc.) scrape most of the "leather" off the back at least until you can see the outline of the nodules (soak in water first). This helps get a better fit and gives a stronger bond. I thought it was fairly easy to cut provided you dont try to cut one of the nodules. I found the small leatherman micro scissors to be perfect for this job. You can't cut dead straight lines, you cut in a zigzag around the nodules. This does have an advantage in that joining two pieces together can easily end in a seamless result if you get the fit right. The material can stretch a bit as well. The nodules will sand well on a linisher, but they smell a bit. Glue up when it's been well soaked and still moist (because it retains its flexibility) Shagreen (particularly when it's been shaved) becomes stiff when dry.