Darkening brownband?

Question

I recently got a blinged out browband for my eventing horse. The problem is that it's a few shades lighter than my bridle. In the past i've soaked my leathers in neetsfoot oil to darken them, but I don't want to do that because I'm afraid it will ruin the crystals on it. Anyone have any idea what to do?

Answer 1

Conditioners won't ruin your crystals... I use Lexol leather conditioner or Passier leatherbalm (its more expensive but I love the stuff for dry tack). Usually, instead of soaking in the conditioner, i brush or slather it on, wait 5 minutes, then wipe it off with a dry cloth. If you still have goop on your crystals, just rinse them and the dry your browband really well.

Answer 2

1024 had the same idea as me  - I'd go for using an artist's type paintbrush to apply the oil.

Answer 3

Oil would be what I would try, too.  You can try applying the oil with a Q-tip so you can control where it goes and keep it away from the crystals.  No need to soak it; I'd just keep applying one coat, let it dry and then add another if it's not dark enough.