This is my first attempt to refinish a bow. The Real Bowdoc started the best thread ever IMO (Restoration 101 on 1959 Kodiaks) and I urge you to read it before attempting a refinish.  

   http://tradgang.com/noncgi/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=14;t=006473  

I struggled a bit with the leather grip and thought I'd share with you my findings and result.

After many prototypes, I finally arrived to the right pattern for the 59 Grizzly Leather Grip.

Copy the file and print it to the right scale.

   

I used thin vegetable tanned leather. I do not know the weight, sorry, but it was pretty much the thinest I could find. I used a smaller type beveling knife to thin the extremities and worked quite well. I found it worked better on dry leather rather than wet.

   

   

I then used contact cement to glue the grip on. First applying a generous amount on the rough side of the leather and let it half dry. I then soaked for 5 minutes the glue coated leather in hot water before stretching it on the bow, conforming the leather to the curves of the grip. When the leather dries, it contracts a little making it real tight. I am happy with the result.

   

I decided not to dye the leather. I know it will take a rich orang color with time. I have treated this kind of leather with vegetable cooking oil in the past and find it works real fine. Here is a test strip of leather :

   

The lower end of the strip is untreated, the mid portion has one coat of sunflower oil I put 24 hours ago and I just applied a second coat on the upper portion of the test strip. I will wait for the grip to dry completely before I put the first coat, it's still a little humid.

-Simon

Very nice work Simon very nice.bowdoc

looking good!  

Looks great, nice work.
                         .....Scott

Good Job Simon thanks for sharing,that Griz looks sweet!
Mike

Nice job.

Terry

Outstanding! Good job my friend! CKruse

Nice job!

Just printed the pattern.
Thanks Simon, You've got skilz!

Thanks Simon, I'm going to give it a try soon...

Thanks guys

This is the final result of the grip and side plate complete with a Trap feather rest and a Bearbowman string.

All Trad Gang, bow, restoration 101 class, rest and string.

I love this site

 

 

-Simon