Leather is normally produced in a large industrial factory known as a ‘Tannery’. This name is derived from the main production process used to create the leather, which is called ‘tanning’. This is the process that preserves the leather and makes usable.

The production of leather is a laborious and time-consuming process but it can be broken down in to 4 basic steps.

1. Curing
The skin/hide is cleaned and temporarily preserved (cured) using water and salt. The skin is then cleaned again in plain water, which helps to replenish some of the moisture lost from the salty solution.

2. Liming
The skin is treated with a mineral based ‘lime water’ solution, which helps to remove hair, oil, grease and other unwanted debris.

Once the fur has been removed the skin is referred to as ’raw-hide’ and is now ready for the ‘tanning’ stage.

3. Tanning Process
‘Tannin’, which is a natural acidic substance comes in many forms but is mainly produced from minerals or tree bark (oak, chestnut and mangrove) in a dark brown liquid form. Synthetic tanning solutions are also available. The skin is placed in the tanning substance in a large rotating drum, along with antibacterial agents, which prevent bacteria from growing. This stage can last for up to 2 days.

4. Coating
There are many different styles of leather that can be created at this stage. Wax, oils, lubricants and dyes can be added for different finishes and textures.

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