[ Ref. 131229 MMDigest, Silicone Spray Treatment on Pouch Leather ]

The problem with items previously exposed to silicone products is one
of surface tension.  To equalize this tension I have used for years a
product called "Smoothie".  Smoothie is nothing more than pure silicone
oil and adding it to your new coating makes the surface tension equal
and eliminates fish eyes and craters.  But this also comes at a price
-- this additive creates an orange peel texture to your finish.

The secret is to use the least amount needed to correct the problem
and then reduce the amount in following coats.  Also, the Smoothie must
be completely mixed in the product into which it is added.  In lacquer
this is not a problem, but in lower solvency coatings the Smoothie must
first be mixed with the appropriate thinner or it will not go into
solution.

I once encountered a refinisher that was using a catalytic varnish
and he just squirted a dropper-full into a gallon, stirred and sprayed.
This resulted in some of the largest "fish eyes" that I have ever seen,
and a lot of sanding and re-coating was necessary to arrive at an
acceptable finish!  As of yet, I know of no product that will work with
water-based finishes.

Nathan "Skip" Woodhull
Lima, Ohio