Custom White's Boots ... Thoughts?

[iamntbatman]

I don't mind the green oxidation on the eyelets themselves, but it does discolor the leather laces. Finding a way to remove the green stains from the latter is the tougher nut to crack.

 

[Patek]

I just got my first shipping notification from Bakers! It seems only one of the boots is shipping but I'll take it!

 

[Legal Eagles]

Do any of you guys have an issue with rusted brass eyelets? What did you you do about that?

View attachment 1397232

It is called "verdigris" and it has been a problem for centuries, everywhere brass is used in sartorial applications. It is especially a bane of collectors of old militaria, although some actually prefer it as it lends gravitas and authenticity to certain pieces.

An internet search for verdigris removal will turn up a plethora of home remedies... I use a toothpick (gently) to dislodge and remove the bulk of green gunk, followed by a toothbrush and baking soda / water paste. Some use lemon juice or vinegar and salt, but I don't want acid on my leather.

Finish with a light coat of neutral wax polish applied with a Q-Tip to the eyelets to "seal" them and you should be fine.

 

[justsayno]

Thanks for imparting the sartorial history tidbit

Too much hassle (for me), unfortunately. These days I don't even have time to brush my boots!

 

[miggyramone]

^The baking soda/water mix doesn't stain the leather?

 

[Legal Eagles]

Thanks for imparting the sartorial history tidbit

No problem...

 

[Legal Eagles]

^The baking soda/water mix doesn't stain the leather?

What is baking soda but sodium bicarbonate?

Harmless... people brush their teeth with it... if it leaves any trace it is not really a stain but a light powdery residue which can be wiped off or rinsed away with water.

I don't go overboard, a slurry about the consistency of ketchup works for me, lightly applied.

I have not seen any long term adverse effects, and prefer a light temporary treatment with water and baking soda over letting the verdigris set there...

Test in an inconspicuous spot first, and as always, internet advice is worth every penny you pay!

 

[miggyramone]

^Ah, gotcha. Thanks for the tip.

 

[Rymanocerous]

What is baking soda but sodium bicarbonate?

Harmless... people brush their teeth with it... if it leaves any trace it is not really a stain but a light powdery residue which can be wiped off or rinsed away with water.

I don't go overboard, a slurry about the consistency of ketchup works for me, lightly applied.

I have not seen any long term adverse effects, and prefer a light temporary treatment with water and baking soda over letting the verdigris set there...

Test in an inconspicuous spot first, and as always, internet advice is worth every penny you pay!

I will offer that while this is true, sometimes you might experience the effect of it being very effective, leaving cleaning spots, creating a stain like contrast. Baking soda has quickly become one of my favorite cleaning agents.

 

[chicken1616]

The proper terminology for the green stuff is "verdigris".

 

[Rymanocerous]

The proper terminology for the green stuff is "verdigris".

Little late to the party mate

It is called "verdigris" and it has been a problem for centuries..

 

[chicken1616]

Little late to the party mate

Sorry
I was in the Navy for a long time. Verdigris is a daily issue.

 

[NautOfEarth]

This pair is very tempting. I'm concerned that, with the double midsole, it will look clownish on my feet. What do you guys think? I am 5'7" and about 145 lbs.

 

[smartbrother]

This pair is very tempting. I'm concerned that, with the double midsole, it will look clownish on my feet. What do you guys think? I am 5'7" and about 145 lbs.

Go for it! Don't be afraid of the t h i c c midsole

 

[Legal Eagles]

This pair is very tempting. I'm concerned that, with the double midsole, it will look clownish on my feet. What do you guys think? I am 5'7" and about 145 lbs.

In those boots you will be 5'11" and no one will dare make fun of you...