Try wetting the inside a bit where you need to straighten it, enough to make it flexible, but beyond that the amount of water isn't critical. Then clamp it in the shape you want, let it dry completely, and it should stay that way. If it doesn't, try again with more water. After it's in the shape you want, you can oil it; oiling won't cause it to resume its former shape.
If the saddle has been oiled a lot, this won't work. You might have to soak the whole thing to get oil out and water in. Sounds like an awful thing to do, I know, but this has worked for me without causing any damage. And, after all, if it doesn't work, you're only out five bucks.
Steve Maas (currently posting from) Malaga, Spain
Sean Flores wrote:
> I seem to remember that someone a while back posted some info about
> reshaping a brooks with a flaring/sagging skirt. I checked the archives
> and could not find it, and there is a small chance it was on another
> forum/list.
>
> At any rate I picked up a b17 in okay shape except the sagging skirts,
> it was $5, I'm willing to experiment. So is there any way to give the
> leather shape. Soaking in oil and letting dry? Any ideas or a point to
> the original post would be greatly appreciated.
>
> Thanks.
>
> Sean Flores
> SF, CA