3. Finishing - A slight coating of color, with solids, is put onto the hide to create a more consistent look and even coloration. This coating provides many positives and practical characteristics. Color is put on top of a dyed hide of similar color... the color achieved during dyeing acts as a primer for the finish. This allows less coating to be put on the hide and thus a softer hide. The finish acts as a barrier between you and the actual skin. It helps prevent staining and keeps the leather color consistent over many years. A finsihed leather is the most widely used leather in the industry and almost always in every commercial job due to its color consitency, durability and ease in cleaning.