In the past, tanners were considered alchemists, for they had the extraordinary power to transform raw hides into treasures. The earliest evidence of leather tanning dates back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia and remains in the annals of human progress since. This remarkable synergy between the human brain and hands has evolved across millennia and passed down through generations as a longstanding tradition. Ancient leather-making is often shrouded in mystery, rituals, and fascinating materials like tree bark and urine! Crafting leather is more than a means to an end, it’s a true labor of love, preserving hides while maintaining their inherent characteristics and beauty. It is equally about creating a piece of beauty as much as one of function. Ever wondered what goes into the transformation of a hide into leather? Here is a glimpse!
Preparation:
Before tanning, the hides are cured in salt to prevent the putrefactive action of bacteria and cleaned thoroughly to remove any residue. It is then softened in water for anywhere between a few hours to a few days based on the starting hide and the transformation desired for the finished product. It is finally expertly shaped, stretched, and dried, prepped for a round of tanning.
Tanning:
Tanning borrows its name from tannin, a natural compound found in tree barks and plants used traditionally in leather-making. Tannins are key to the process and have unique properties that affect the outcome of the product. Tanning is a process that changes the chemistry of the leather fibers by binding to the proteins and changing the structure to preserve the hide and make it resistant to decay. Since the 1800s chromium mineral tannins revolutionized the process by making it faster, more cost-effective, and accessible. The quality of the products was more consistent and much more resistant to the elements. However, with technological breakthroughs, the early 2000s saw a revival of plant-based tanning and other environmentally friendly manufacturing methods.
Finishing:
The hides are finally waxed, lubricated, oiled, rolled, shaved split, or dyed based on the intended final finish. This lends it its color, flexibility, texture, and characteristic finish.
Throughout history, leather production has been a slow and laborious process. Today, it is a sophisticated process that involves innovative technologies, advanced chemistry, and cutting-edge machinery that is faster and more efficient than traditional methods. These modern methods blend traditional techniques with innovative technologies to produce durable and sustainable leather. This transformative journey continues to innovate and evolve in response to changing times to create high-quality leather that can withstand the test of time.