Dubbin (also known as “dubbing” in the USA) is a traditional product used to soften, condition and waterproof
leather. It consists of natural
wax,
oil and
tallow. Dubbin has been used since
medieval times to waterproof and soften leather goods. It is different from
saddle soap used to clean and lightly condition leather, or
shoe polish
Shoe polish (or boot polish) is a waxy paste, cream, or liquid that is used to polish, shine, and waterproof leather shoes or boots to extend the footwear's life and restore its appearance. Shoe polishes are distinguished by their textures, ...
, which is used to impart shine and colour to it.
Dubbin can be made with beeswax; fish oil; and lard, and can also include
mink oil.
The name ''dubbin'' is a contraction of the
gerund ''dubbing'', describing the action of applying the wax to leather.
References
;Citations
;Other references
- Material Safety Data Sheet - Joseph Lyddy dubbin.
- ''Opportunities for industry and the safe investment of capital'' (1859) Rothman, E., Lippincott, USA
*Jarell, T.D., Holman, H.P., (1923) Effects of Treating Materials and Outdoor Exposure upon Water Resistance and Tensile Strength of Cotton Duck, ''Industrial and Engineering Chemistry'', Bureau of Chemistry, Washington.
*Norton, F.J., (1945) ''Waterproofing Treatments of Materials'', Patent Number 2386259, Serial Number 452,885, United States Patent Office.
*Holman, H.P., Jarrell, T.D., (date unknown) The Effects of Waterproofing Materials and Outdoor Exposure upon the Tensile Strength of Cotton Yarn, ''Industrial and Engineering Chemistry'', 15(3), US Department of Agriculture, Washington.
*Stewart, C.S., (1977) Factors Affecting the Cellulolytic Activity of Rumen Contents, ''Applied and Environmental Microbiology'', pp. 497–502
External links
Johan's Dubbin Page- a leathercrafter's perspective of this
leather conditioner.
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Footwear accessories