How To Preserve Your Leather

Proper maintenance is absolutely essential to preserving the life and look of your leather gear. At Toor Knives, we take pride in crafting premium leather sheaths that are built to last, but how you care for them plays an equally important role in their longevity.

About the Toor Knives Leather Sheath

Each Toor Knives Leather Sheath is handcrafted from 8–9 oz Wickett & Craig premium leather and finished in our signature Bison Brown colorway. Every sheath includes a secure retention clasp and is designed as a one-size-fits-all, accommodating Toor knives ranging from small to large.

Fit Note: Please double-check your knife's specifications to ensure proper length and fit.

Over time, your sheath will naturally form to your blade, developing a custom fit and unique patina that reflects your use and adventures.

Before You Begin

Breaking in your new leather sheath takes a bit of time, but you can speed up the process with a wet-fitting technique. This method safely molds the leather to your specific knife for a precise and secure fit.

What You’ll Need:

Duration: For best results, this process may take up to 72 hours.

STEP 1: Cleaning (Prep Stage)

If your sheath isn’t brand new, start by cleaning the leather. Wipe away loose dirt and buildup, then apply Toor Knives Leather Cleaner to a lint-free cloth.

Using small circular motions, gently clean the surface until any residue is removed.

Allow the leather to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Leather Cleaner: https://toorknives.com/collections/leather-care/products/leather-cleaner

STEP 2: WETTING THE LEATHER

The key to wet fitting is not soaking the leather all the way through, oversaturation can lead to drying and cracking.

Submerge your cloth in warm water, wring out the excess, and lightly wet both sides of the sheath. Apply a bit more moisture to areas that will need to stretch and conform to the shape of your knife. This ensures smooth, even molding without stains or stiffness.

STEP 3: MOLDING THE FIT

Once damp, insert your knife into the sheath and form the leather around it by hand.

Focus on pressing and shaping the areas that will provide the best retention.

If the sheath resists forming, lightly re-dampen those sections and continue shaping until you achieve the desired fit.

STEP 4: DRYING NATURALLY

Do not rush the drying process.

Allow the sheath to air dry overnight in a cool, dry place.

Avoid using ovens, hairdryers, or direct heat sources, as they can cause the leather to warp and become damaged.

Patience pays off here; slow drying ensures the leather retains its integrity and strength.

STEP 5: CONDITIONING THE LEATHER

Once completely dry, apply a small amount of Toor Knives Leather Conditioner to a lint-free cloth.

Rub the conditioner onto the sheath in circular motions until the surface is evenly coated.

Let it rest for one hour, then apply more if needed.

Allow the sheath to cure for 24 hours before use.

Leather Conditioner: https://toorknives.com/collections/leather-care/products/leather-conditioner

STEP 6: LEATHER DRESSING

For the finishing touch, apply a thin coat of Toor Knives Leather Dressing using the same circular motion technique.

After application, let the sheath sit for one hour, then reapply if necessary.

Allow it to cure for an additional 24 hours for maximum protection and flexibility.

Leather Dressing: https://toorknives.com/collections/leather-care/products/leather-dressing

Knife with brown sheath on a green fabric background

Once complete, your sheath will be perfectly molded, fully conditioned, and ready to perform for years to come. With proper care, your Toor Knives Leather Sheath will not only protect your blade but also age beautifully, telling the story of every mission and mile.

Have a favorite break-in method? Send us a message to share your tips, we’d love to hear how your sheath is shaping up.