Leather is a material made from the skin of animals, usually cows, but also sheep, goats, and pigs. The process of making leather begins with the animal hide being soaked in a lime solution to remove any hair and flesh. The hide is then tanned, which involves soaking it in a solution of tannins and other chemicals to preserve the hide and make it more durable. After tanning, the hide is dried and then treated with oils and waxes to make it more pliable and waterproof. The hide is then cut into the desired shape and size and stitched together to form the finished product. Finally, the leather is dyed and finished with a protective coating to make it more resistant to wear and tear. Leather is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of products, from clothing and shoes to furniture and accessories.
Leather finishing is the process of treating the surface of the leather to give it a desired look and feel. It can involve a variety of techniques, from dyeing and embossing to buffing and burnishing. Different types of leather finishing can be used to create a range of effects, from a soft, supple feel to a hard, glossy finish. The type of finish used will depend on the desired look and feel of the leather, as well as the type of leather being used. Aniline leather, for example, is often finished with a wax or oil to give it a soft, natural feel. Semi-aniline leather is usually finished with a combination of wax and dye to give it a more vibrant look. Nubuck leather is usually finished with a buffing technique to give it a velvety feel. Suede leather is usually finished with a combination of buffing and brushing to give it a soft, velvety texture. Finally, patent leather is usually finished with a glossy coating to give it a hard, glossy finish.