WWII flight jacket restoration help?

[KCcarguy]

Hey fellas. I found my Grandpas WWII Navy flight jacket and I'd like to restore it. The leather is in good shape just dry and a little stiff. The cuffs and collar probably need to be replaced. Does anyone know of a place that does this kind of work or have any experience with this type of thing?

 

[RunninInGA]

The only leather restoration work I've done has been car seats and such - nothing like a jacket or a purse. Have you spoken to any seamstresses near where you live for their advice?

 

[KCcarguy]

The only leather restoration work I've done has been car seats and such - nothing like a jacket or a purse. Have you spoken to any seamstresses near where you live for their advice?

No. So far just some online searching. I honestly wasn't sure if I should try that or a leather shop.

 

[hikenbike]

Chamberlain makes some excellent leather care products.....

Leather Care Liniment | Chamberlains Leather Milk

Might be worth giving them a call.

I'd also try to find a good reputable old-fashioned shoe repair shop in your area to get their advise. A high end department store or leather shop (e.g. Wilsons) may also recommend good leather service shops/advise.

 

[Blacksunshyne]

You might look at conditioning the leather, but I would really think hard about making other repairs or alterations, a lot of the $ value is lost when you start doing that. I understand with something like this the sentimental value is far greater than the $ value concern, but from a more purist point of view I would think more of an original condition for that type of thing would be cool as well.

I have much respect for all the WWII generation, and particularly for the aviation guys and girls. :usa2: