11-09-2023 The Art of Finishing: Transforming Leather into Lasting Elegance
The leather tanning process is an ancient craft that has evolved over time. One of the most crucial aspects of leather production is finishing, a phase that shapes, textures, and gives the final appearance to the product. In the tanning industry, finishing is an essential stage that imparts quality and style to a wide range of leather products, from shoes and bags to furniture and clothing. At Tenería Vargas, we specialize in finishing leather primarily for leather goods such as footwear, leather goods, and upholstery on a large scale. Among the distinctions of our finishing, you can see creativity and expertise in treating leather as an elegant and durable element for any item.
The Importance of Finishing
The finishing of leather is fundamental for several reasons. Firstly, it protects the leather from external damages such as stains, scratches, and the effects of water. Additionally, finishing determines the final appearance of the product, from the shine of a dress shoe to the smoothness of a leather sofa. It can also influence the durability and resistance of leather, making it more suitable for various applications. That's why we always pay attention to every detail of the process, conducting physical tests of the product, such as friction, utilization, water, or sweat resistance, in real-time.
Finishing Process
The finishing process involves several stages. First, a base layer is applied, which can be pigmented or aniline, depending on the desired effect. Then, a top layer is applied, which can be matte, glossy, or satin. This top layer may contain pigments or chemicals that add color, shine, or wear resistance. Finally, drying and polishing processes are carried out to achieve the desired finish. It's worth mentioning that not all lines are processed in the same way; everything must be based on the master sample determined with the client and product developers. At Tenería Vargas, our finishing processes are diverse and depend on a creative concept based on the final application, i.e., how the leather will look on a leather item such as a bag or a pair of shoes. It all depends on market demands and fashion trends. Our experience is always to work with creative proposals in a specific development, and we provide suggestions from our design and development laboratory, which is responsible for testing new lines that may be pleasing to our clients.
Types of Finishing
There are several types of finishes in the tanning industry. Matte finishing provides a natural and soft appearance, while glossy finishing adds a lustrous and elegant shine. Aniline finishes allow the texture and natural characteristics of leather to be more visible, whereas pigmented finishes cover imperfections and provide color uniformity.
Technological Innovations in Finishing
Technology has transformed the leather finishing industry, with automated application systems and advanced chemicals improving process efficiency and quality. At Tenería Vargas, we have the necessary infrastructure for specialized finishing for chrome-tanned wet blue leather, including spray technology with guns or roller pigmenting.
Current Trends
Currently, the trend in the tanning industry focuses on more natural finishes, as consumers seek leather products that maintain the authenticity and natural characteristics of the material. This has led to an increased demand for clean leather with finishes that highlight the natural beauty of the material. In summary, the finishing process in the tanning industry plays a crucial role in creating high-quality and stylish leather products. From the choice of finishing type to the application of final layers, each step contributes to the appearance, durability, and functionality of the leather. As technology advances, we can expect exciting innovations in the world of leather finishing to meet the growing demands of quality-conscious consumers.
In summary, the finishing process in the tanning industry plays a crucial role in creating high-quality and stylish leather products. From the choice of finishing type to the application of final layers, each step contributes to the appearance, durability, and functionality of the leather. As technology advances, we can expect exciting innovations in the world of leather finishing to meet the growing demands of quality-conscious consumers.
Chirimoyo #108 Col. El Duraznal
C.P. 37320. León, Gto. México
+52 1 (477) 714 3034
contacto@teneriavargas.com
Unión de Curtidores 322 Parque Piel
37490 León, Gto. México
+52 1 (477) 1038530 | 1038532
