Where does leather come from?

Leather is the term for processed animal skin, most often cowhide, but it can also come from goats, buffalo, snakes, alligators, and even ostriches! In recent years, innovative synthetic leathers have emerged, crafted from plastics and even mushrooms. Cow leather, a byproduct of the meat industry, may only represent 5% of an animal's value, but it’s a treasure trove of utility.

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Dive into the fascinating world of leather, where the journey from animal hide to stylish accessory unfolds! Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’ll discover:

Leather is the term for processed animal skin, most often cowhide, but it can also come from goats, buffalo, snakes, alligators, and even ostriches! In recent years, innovative synthetic leathers have emerged, crafted from plastics and even mushrooms. Cow leather, a byproduct of the meat industry, may only represent 5% of an animal's value, but it’s a treasure trove of utility.

The transformation of raw hides involves a meticulous process: Curing, Soaking, Liming, Fleshing, Trimming, Splitting, Tanning, Re-tanning, Dyeing, and Finishing. Historically, leather was a staple in clothing, building materials, and even ropes, primarily sourced from hunted animals like deer and bison. Today, however, modern agriculture means most leather comes from domesticated cows. If the leather industry were to vanish, it would only lead to more waste filling landfills, as it utilizes a byproduct of meat production.

Curious about where leather is crafted? While cattle are raised globally, the art of tanning leather predominantly takes place in China, Italy, India, Brazil, South Korea, and Russia. Often, the animals are raised in one country, tanned in another, and then transformed into products like shoes and handbags elsewhere, before being shipped to their final destinations. Remarkably, a whopping 80% of leather goods are still produced in China.

In ancient times, leather was made from a diverse array of animals, with whatever was available becoming clothing or essential goods. Today, about 65% of leather comes from cows, with sheep, pigs, and goats contributing smaller shares. Exotic leathers, while rare and luxurious, often come with ethical concerns, especially when sourced from endangered species.

The journey of leather is a complex one, involving ten key stages that transform raw hides into the durable, beautiful material we know today. From curing to finishing, each step is crucial in creating the final product. At Von Baer, we pride ourselves on sourcing and handcrafting all our leather goods in Italy.

As you explore the world of leather, consider the connections to the meat industry. Almost all leather (99%) is a byproduct of animals raised for their meat, and if leather production ceased, it would only lead to more waste, not a reduction in livestock. The demand for meat drives cattle production, and with meat consumption on the rise, leather remains a practical way to minimize waste.

So, whether you’re eyeing a chic handbag or a sturdy pair of shoes, remember the rich history and intricate process behind leather. We hope you enjoyed this journey into the origins of leather!