Grain-forming operations are mechanical finishing processes that transform the leather surface and appearance. There are several methods described, including plating using heated plates or rollers to smooth and film the grain, graining using engraved rollers to emboss patterns, glazing using glass or agate rollers to add gloss, and boarding to create cracks in the grain's surface. The document provides details on the equipment and processes used for each grain-forming operation and how they influence the leather's final properties and appearance.