The Look Of Leather

Carol Duvall Show : Episode CDS-135 -- More Projects »
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Figure A
In a burst of creative innovation, Carol and guest Christy Feke combine masking tape with shoe polish to produce a simulated leather finish on a vase, bottle, and frame. This application need not be limited to wine jugs and table tops, however, as one fellow crafter proved by "leatherizing" her kitchen cabinets.

Materials:

object to be covered - vase, frame, jug, etc.
masking tape, ridged works well
black or dark brown shoe polish or a very light stain
wash cloth or rag
clear acrylic sealer

Steps:
  1. Tear off small pieces of masking tape and cover the object with the pieces, overlapping as you go. The rougher the edges the better.
  2. Using the cloth or rag, lightly apply shoe polish to the tape-covered object (figure A). Allow to dry.
  3. Apply second coat of polish. Let dry.
  4. For a durable, glossy finish, apply clear acrylic coating to entire object.
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