The steps from hide to leather product
This infographic explains the most important steps in leather making.
- Leather is made from a hide. Hides come from animals that are raised for food. The main sources of animal hides are cattle 69%; sheep 13%; goats 11% and pigs 6%.
- The first step in leather making is the cleaning of the hide. Dirt, salt, hair and blood are being removed.
- Tanning is an important step because it turns a hide into leather. The tanning process involves a tanning agent, like Zeology, to preserve the hide and make it durable.
- After tanning, the leather is not yet reading for the production of leather goods. Extra treatment is needed to give the material the desired structure, feel, color and protection.
- Leather is now ready to be used and turned into shoes, bags, and more!