a lubricant. It is used in metalworking industries as a cutting fluid for aluminium. For machining, tapping and drilling aluminium, it is superior to kerosene and various water-based cutting fluids. Neatsfoot oil is often used to oil sign-writers' brushes that have been used in oil-based paint, as this oil is non drying and can be easily washed out with solvent at any time. Oiling the brushes reduces the buildup of pigment in the ferrule, the metal part that many brushes have to hold the hairs in place. See also Animal glue Dippel's oil, another oil, derived from bone Hoof glue Mink oil, alternative leather treatment Saddle soap, leather cleaning and conditioning References Animal fats Bone products Horse tack Leather