Leather University™
Leather Burnishing
& Slicker Tools
by Dan Concord
Author, speaker, teacher, and educator on leather working tools and techniques.
Leather University™
Author, speaker, teacher, and educator on leather working tools and techniques.
The topic for today is another essential tool in leatherworking: burnishers and slickers. Different types of burnishers are available, including plastic, wood, brass, metal, and even glass. Each type has advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one for your project is essential. In this article, I’ll dive into the different kinds of burnishers, how to choose the right one, and some tips and techniques for using them effectively in your leatherworking projects.
Leather crafting involves cutting leather, which exposes its fibers, making it more prone to absorbing dirt and oils, fraying, and weakening. To prevent this, burnishers and slickers are used to smooth out the edges of the leather.
Burnishers and slickers are rounded or curved tools that apply heat and friction to smooth out the edges of the leather, binding the fibers together and creating a denser and tougher edge. To strengthen the edges further, use burnishers with other substances like Tokonole, beeswax, or water, depending on personal preference.
There are various burnishers available, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Burnishing and slicker tools can include:
Plastic burnishers are the least expensive type of burnishers. They can get hot quickly, so it’s important to keep an eye on them while using them to avoid leaving unwanted burn marks on the leather.
Wood burnishers are probably the most popular type of burnishers out there. They come in different types of woods, such as natural open-grain wood and denser woods like cocobolo wood. A denser wood is better for creating a smooth, tough surface on the leather, allowing the heat and friction to work on the edge.
Brass and metal burnishers are stronger than wood but retain a lot of heat. It’s important to be careful when using them to avoid burning and discoloring the leather. Using them on a rotary tool can make it easier to control the speed and avoid overheating.
Exotic wood burnishers refer to woods that are more dense, such as padauk wood, ebony, and rosewood. They make good burnishing bits and can create a smoother, denser edge on the leather.
Glass burnishers are essentially pieces of glass that can be used to slick over the leather and create a smoother surface. They are also used for slicking the rough side of the leather to make it cleaner and tighter.
Box slickers are rectangular pieces of wood that function like typical wooden burnishers. They are block-shaped rather than rounded and function like other slickers and burnishers through the friction created by moving the block quickly over the leather.
Power burnishing machines can make burnishing easier and more consistent. Rotary tools are a common type of power burnishing machine, which can be used with different types of burnishing bits to create a consistent application. It’s important to be careful not to push too hard with a power burnishing tool, as this can burn the leather.
Choosing the right burnisher comes down to personal preference and the type of project you’re working on. By considering cost, effectiveness, and size, you can find the perfect burnisher for your needs and achieve professional-looking results.
When it comes to purchasing a burnisher, cost and effectiveness are two important factors to consider. The range of cost for burnishers varies greatly, with plastic burnishers generally being the least expensive option and rotary tools being the most expensive. It is recommended to start with a basic burnisher and then upgrade to a rotary tool with a high-quality bit as you gain more experience.
Basic wooden burnishers are a good starting point and can be purchased for just a few bucks. Exotic woods like cocoa bolo are denser and will generally provide better results, but will also come at a higher cost. Rotary tools are a great investment for those who plan on doing a lot of burnishing and want consistent results. Investing in a high-quality rotary tool with a good bit for long-term use is recommended.
Most burnishers come in size variations, which is important to consider when choosing the right one for your leather. Choosing a burnisher that best fits your leather will ensure you get the best results. Wooden burnishers, brass burnishers, and glass burnishers all come in different sizes, so it’s important to take the time to find the right one for your project. With the right burnisher, you can create smooth, strong, and durable edges for your leather projects.
Choosing the right burnisher or slicker for your leatherwork can create a smooth and polished edge for your leather projects, making a significant difference in the quality and durability of your finished product. Experiment with different options; it’s all about your personal preference and what works best for you.
Please let us know if you have questions, and until next time, keep crafting.
Dan Concord is a professional leather crafter with 15 years of design experience and expertise. He is founder of the successful Liberty Leather Goods studio, and also a published author, speaker, teacher, and educator on leather working tools and techniques. He lives in the USA.
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