Reply by epp_dog

The heated iron and wax make the process much easier. I have burnished some of my pieces with friction heat (rubbing a cloth hard/fast enough to create the interesting tones) but that is quite a workout. I personally don’t go for a “patent leather” look on my pieces so I don’t have experience with the glass look but wax makes sense. I most enjoy the carving on the leather.

This is a guy who does WONDERFUL leather boxes. I have had to call him for tips on occasion. http://www.petermain.com/

-- David, Florida