I want to modify my full zip Asbell wool mackinaw by adding medium brown to chocolate brown leather trim to the elbows, cuffs, and pocket edges. I'll put some on the "V" in the neck on the shoulder piece and add antler toggles to close up the "V" in the bitter cold.
What hide would be most resistant to abrasions but still be soft enough for clothing/mobility when hunting? Also should I go with smooth leather or suede? I use it in the woods a lot roaming around and hunting.
(http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee146/gdpolk/Traditional%20Projects/IMG_0020.jpg)
Deer hide should work good, especially the thinner stuff near the sides or belly. I'd go with smooth rather than suede.
My biggest considerations were deer and elk but wondered about y'all's input
Definitely smooth over suede. Suede can be rough and end up feeling like sandpaper. Any glove like leather (elk, buffalo, deer, goat) would be a good choice.
I got some Goat hide at Tandy Leather once that would be perfect for this. It was a medium brown and very soft.
I picked up a fairly large piece off their bargain table. It was cheap.
bretto