Frequently asked questions
Ask us anything.
Here are the questions we hear the most and the answers provided by founders Vince & Susan.
What makes Skidmore's Leather Cream different from other conditioners?
Our formulas use natural oils and beeswax. We do not use any animal oils/fats in any of our products. Our unique blend of ingredients works magic on leather — bringing dry leather back to life. Our cream conditions leather while helping preserve its character — ideal for saddles, jackets, furniture, and heirloom pieces.
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How often should I apply Leather Cream?
For everyday items, every 3–6 months is typical. Boots and shoes and other leathers that are exposed to the elements may benefit from more regular light applications. Leather furniture can even go a year. If the leather looks dry, it is probably time for another application.
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Can I use Skidmore's Leather Cream on all leather types?
Our cream and waterproofing work well on dang near all leathers. Most leathers have a dye and/or finish of some sort — the products work great on that. Open grain leather and light colored leathers will darken more. On exotic hides, white or light leathers, or leathers with delicate finishes be sure to test on a small hidden area first. Suede or rough-out leathers will also darken considerably and will be difficult to buff out because they're not smooth. On suede the fluff will be matted down.
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Is the same cream okay for boots and bags?
Yes. Leather Cream works the same way on boots, saddles, jackets, and bags — feed the grain, buff it back, let it do the work.
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Will it darken my leather?
On most finished leather, barely. On light or open-grain leather, noticeably. Suede and rough-out darken a lot and mat down. Test a small hidden spot first if you're not sure.
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Are your wood finishes low-VOC?
Yes. Our wood care line, in fact, all our products, have less than 10 ppm VOCs. You can use them with confidence indoors and outdoors on all your furniture, cabinetry, and woodwork projects.
Finish or sealer — which do I need?
Finish feeds and colors the wood; sealer locks in protection on top. Most projects use finish first, sealer after.
How often should I recoat wood?
Once a year for furniture that gets normal use is a good rule of thumb — more often for floors or anything handled daily.
What is Galley Wax used for?
The Galley Wax was formulated in response to many requests for a food-safe wood treatment. It is made with pure flax seed oil and beeswax and does not turn rancid. It is ideal for butcher block counters, cutting boards, wooden bowls & utensils.
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Can I use Galley Wax as a wood finish if I am sensitive to turpentine?
Yes. Galley Wax also makes a great wood finishing product. It leaves a nice finish, especially good for folks who are sensitive to pure gum spirits of turpentine.
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Which size should I order?
For the Leather Cream choose a 6 oz for shoes/boots; pints are great for folks with saddles and tack. Half-gallon and gallon sizes are economical for workshops, saddleries, and fleet maintenance. The Liquid Beeswax Woodfinish and Sealer will cover approximately 500 sq ft per gallon.
Do you ship gallon sizes?
Yes. Heavier orders typically ship UPS. Checkout shows live rates based on your address and cart weight.
What should I apply the products with?
The Leather Cream and Waterproofing can be applied with a clean cloth or brush. Buffing them out also works great with an absorbent cloth. The Liquid Beeswax Woodfinish and Sealer can be applied with a paintbrush or roller.
Are Skidmore's products made in the USA?
Yes. Skidmore's is a 40 year old family-owned business — jumping from California to Wyoming to Washington state. All our products are handmade by us using ingredients sourced in the USA. We are truly a cottage industry.
Can I call with a question?
Absolutely. 800-785-2466 — you will get Vince or Susan. If we are hands-full, leave a message; we will call back. Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pacific.
