Video - Using tokonole: finishing gum for leather

The Seiwa tokonole comes from Japan and makes it possible to smooth and shine the edges of natural leathers or colored leathers that have had vegetable tanning. On the crust side, the tokonole helps bond the leather fibers and removes lint.

HOW IS TOKONOLE MADE?

Seiwa tokonole is made from a blend of natural waxes . It is non-toxic, aqueous-based (water) and odorless.

VEGETABLE TANNED OR MINERAL (CHROME) LEATHER?

Seiwa tokonole can only be applied to the edges of vegetable tanned leathers . On the other hand, on the split side, it can be applied to vegetable or mineral tanned leathers . We do not recommend using it on suede or nubuck leather (with a brushed surface).

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TOKONOLE AND GUM TRAGACANTH?

Tokonole has the same functions as gum tragacanth but is "more potent".

HOW TO APPLY TOKONOLE ON THE EDGE OF LEATHER?

1. Work the edges of the leather with an edge trimmer then sand them with an abrasive sponge. Sanding should always be done in the same direction and at 45° to the edge.
2. Take a small amount of tokonole using a spatula, a cloth or on the fingertips then apply it to the edge of the leather.
3. When the tokonole is "semi-dry", polish the edge with a wooden smoother or a soft cloth.

If the tokonole runs on the grain of the leather, wipe it off immediately so that it does not leave traces. Apply several layers of tokonole until the desired smoothness is obtained.

RESULT :
The edge of the leather becomes a little darker and shiny. After several years, the edge of the leather may become fluffy again: it will be possible to revive it by reapplying tokonole.

HOW TO APPLY TOKONOLE ON THE SPLIT LEATHER?

1. Using a spatula or fingertips: apply the tokonole finely to the split leather. When the tokonole is "semi-dry", rub it with a tempered glass burnisher or a wooden smoother. The fibers of the leather are pressed giving it a shiny finish. 2. When the tokonole is "semi-dry", rub it with a tempered glass burnisher or a wooden smoother. The fibers of the leather are pressed, giving it a shiny finish.

The crust of the leather is smooth and shiny. The leather becomes a little darker where the tokonole has been applied. The tokonole is ideal for easily and quickly working on leather belts.

RESULT WITH NEUTRAL TOKONOLE

RESULT WITH BLACK TOKONOLE

RESULTS WITH BROWN TOKONOLE

HOW TO COLOR THE TOKONOLE?

1- Apply water-based dye to the edge of the leather.
2- Place tokonole on the slice and rub vigorously.

It is also possible to mix water-based dye and neutral tokonole in a small jar to further control the tint. However, the mixture must be left to stand for 2 to 3 hours so that it becomes thicker.

WARNING: to color the slices before applying the tokonole, you must choose water-based dye and not a slice finish because it may flake off.