carlDOTwest wrote:

I just finished a scabbard for a very nice pattern welded sword made by
Dr. Jim Hrisoulas aka "Atar". It appears that there was just a tech of
moisture in the leather when I put the sword in it last night.

I would try electrocleaning. It does not remove any metal.

http://www.metalworking.com/dropbox/_1999_retired_files/E-CLEAN2.TXT
http://www.metalworking.com/dropbox/_1999_retired_files/E-CLEAN.TXT

Given the time constraints, you could just use a battery charger for
power (polarity is important) and, if you can't round up all the
ingredients for the solution, just try plain washing soda (_not_ baking
soda) in water.

Ted