Observation

This question was attempted by many candidates. The question required the candidates to define chamoising and explain oiling, airing and stocking operations in the fuller stock method of producing chamoise in the (a) and (b) parts of the question. Most candidates were able to define chamoising in the (a) part. Candidates were also able to explain oiling and airing correctly however, few of them were confusing stocking with stockpiling of commodities in the (b) part of the question. Majority of the candidates who attempted this question scored above average marks.
The candidates were expected to provide the following answers to score higher marks.

(a)        Chamoising is the method of converting pelt with oils into leather.

(b)       

(i)         The flesh splits are wrung out and worked in the fuller stock for a few hours to equalize  the moisture; the skins are then placed on a table and cod or fish oil is rubbed into them on both sides.
(ii)        The pelts, after oil has been rubbed into them are hung up in a shade for some time.
By airing, some water evaporates and the oil is absorbed; and by coming into contact with the air, the oil is oxidized.
The oil and snuffed pelt is exposed to warm or fresh air to enable the oil penetrate into it. 
(iii)        When a sufficient number of oiled skins have been put into the stock, pummeling of the pelt (stocking) is commenced which drives the oil mechanically into the inner fibres of the pelt.