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Finishing is worried with the improvement of the hand and appearance of a product so as to boost its normal outlook and maximize its marketability potentials. It is essential that Leatherwork articles are finished in any of the accepted finishing methods to heighten their design and aesthetic qualities. There are numerous appropriate methods by way of which leather products can be finished. Some of these techniques are burnishing, waxing, polishing, spraying, texturing, patenting. using conditioners, soaps, and cleaners.

1. Burnishing

This is an ornamental process in which a smooth surface/instrument is rubbed over the surface of the leather to produce a sheen. The leather is placed on a hard surface. Then a blunt, smooth instrument, for example, Stone, bottle, bulb, spoon, marble or some smooth, hard object is used to rub over the surface of the leather on the grain side to produce a shiny effect. This is completed by starting from some extent and working gradually to all parts of the leather till a uniform sheen is produced. By this process, the tough surface of the leather and any wrinkles are smoothed or polished. This is finished by rigorously rubbing the surface of leather with a device reminiscent of a bone folder, plastic or wooden burnishing wheel, stone, bottle, metal spoon etc. to depart a fine shiny, glossy or smooth appearance.

2. Waxing

This finishing technique entails the application of wax to improve the surface quality, hardness, and water-resistant ability of the leather item. The application of the wax may be performed by way of brush or foam to provide a shiny effect to the leather product.

3. Polishing

This finishing method additionally goals at improving the surface quality of leather products. Polish within the type of abrasives with varying colors and polishing liquors like lacquer or varnish are applied with either hard bristle brushes or foam to improve the surface quality of leather items. Generally wax is used to reinforce the surface quality of the leather.

4. Spraying

This is the application of polishing liquors like varnish or lacquer on leather items by means of spray guns or diffusers that spill the polishing agents in fine bits or dots on the leather item to improve its surface quality. Spraying avoids the brush strokes that generally mar the perfect application of the polishing liquors.

5. Texturing

This is achieved by the use of dyes, acrylics, and different coloring agents by incising, stamping, printing, spraying etc. These are used in creating patterns or textures on the grain side of the leather for decorative purposes.

6. Patenting

This is the application of lacquer or varnishes in layers on the leather to give the surface a waterproof effect and make the surface very shiny.

7. Using Conditioners

Leather conditioners soften and nourish the leather while providing a protective coating over the leather. This assists the leather to be able to withstand scuffing and coloration fade. It gives the surface luster to leather after polishing. Examples and conditioners, their functions and application have been discussed below.

i. Saddler’s wax- It nourishes, cleans and polishes leather. It is used totally on saddles, boots, and handbags. It may be applied with the fingers, a piece of cloth, a brush or a damp sponge.

ii. Melo wax- It is used for cleaning, polishing and softening smooth grained leather. It can be applied with a fabric or the fingers, allowed to dry and then polished with a soft cloth.

iii. Kiwi leather conditioner- It cleans, mellows, softens and preserves smooth grained leather. It may be utilized with a fabric or the fingers, allowed to dry and then polished gently.

iv. Shoe Cream- It nourishes, cleans and softens leather. It is used on belts, handbags, billfolds, watch bands, bracelets, hair ornaments, etc. It can be applied with the fingers, a bit of material, a brush or a damp sponge.

v. Lexol- It makes the leather supple and offers a durable preservative finish. It is applied in thin coats by the use of sponge, a bit of fabric or the fingers. It is allowed to soak in for about ten minutes before it is applied.

vi. Vaseline petroleum jelly- It softens the leather, brings back its colour and provide a protective coating to assist the leather resist scuffing. It is applied with the fingers. It’s allowed to dry a bit for 15-20 minutes and then wiped off with a soft cloth. It’s principally used on belts and handbags.

8. Using Soaps and Cleaners

Soaps and cleaners are also wonderful finishes which are used to clean and protect the surface of leather. It is utilized with a wet sponge or brush. After its application, it is wiped with a dry fabric after which polished to a soft luster. Examples include Kiwi soaps, Belvoir glycerine soaps, Belmont soaps, Propert soaps, Castile soaps and Blue Ribbon soaps.

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