Leather Finishing

[Kenrow7]

I'm new to leather working and was wondering what are the usual applications of finishes after the stain?

Is there some sort of sealer first then a protecting top coat? What products are common for this?

Thank you!

[TwinOaks]

there are several different types that are commonly used. Traditionally, a wax or lacquer finish is used as a final top coat. However, newer formulas sometimes are lacking, and people are much more aware of the dangers of VOCs. So, some people have moved entirely to friendlier chemicals. Here's a few of the things that are being used:

Supersheen

Resolene*

Neat-lac* / Wyosheen

Saddle lac*

Leather balm*

Carnuba cream

Tan Kote / Bag Kote

Sno-seal*

Shoe polish

parafin/beeswax/oil mixture

just oil

and...

There are some additional finishes in the Pro Water Stain that I haven't looked at yet.

They're used at different stages, sometimes more than once. For example, if you wanted to antique a piece, you'd seal the leather, apply the antique, remove the excess, then re-seal the leather. There are some that are better for waterproofing, some that are good for tack as oil will penetrate, but dirt and water dont....just gotta find the right finish for what you're doing.

[Kenrow7]

Wow! Thanks for the great info!

Here's what I'm working on...I'm making my brother who is a police officer a knife sheath. The finish I'm trying to get is all black and a matte finish.