What is Leather

At its most basic level, leather is a skin that has been preserved so it will never rot.

​It is a biological material that has undergone a chemical transformation to make it permanent, durable, and flexible. Without this process, a raw hide would either become stiff and brittle like a board or decompose and rot away.

1. The Raw Material

​Leather starts as a byproduct of the food industry. It is the hide of an animal—most commonly a cow, sheep, or goat. In its raw state, the skin is made of water, fats, and protein fibers (collagen).

2. The Process: Tanning

​The magic of leather happens during Tanning. This is the process of replacing the water molecules in the skin with “tanning agents.”

​Vegetable Tanning: Using natural tannins found in tree bark (like Oak or Mimosa). This is the traditional “Old World” method used for harness making because it creates a sturdy, long-lasting leather that “remembers” its shape.

​Chrome Tanning: Using mineral salts. This is a modern, faster process that results in soft, colorful leathers used for jackets or upholstery.

3. Why is it special?

​Leather is unique because of its fibrous structure. Unlike fabric, which is woven together, leather is a dense, three-dimensional web of collagen fibers.

​Breathability: It has microscopic pores that allow air to pass through at very slow and controlled rate.

​Strength: It is incredibly difficult to tear because the fibers are naturally intertwined.

​Malleability: It can be molded when wet and will hold that shape once dry—a quality crucial for making comfortable harnesses and saddles.

4. The “Living” Material

​Even after it is tanned, leather is often called a “living” material. It reacts to the environment. It absorbs oils from your hands, it stretches with use, and it develops a patina (a natural sheen and darkening) over time.

The Craftsman’s View:

The Ethics of the Material: A Craftsman’s Responsibility
To a leatherworker, leather isn’t just a fabric; it’s a piece of history. We are taking a natural byproduct and turning it into a tool that, if cared for, can last for generations. However, the source of that material matters as much as the craft itself.

A Commitment to Ethical Sourcing:

I feel it is important to note that I do not hunt. The leather I use is primarily a byproduct of other industries—ensuring that a resource which would otherwise be wasted is instead preserved and put to meaningful use.

The Australian Context:

In Australia, we face unique environmental challenges. Our feral animal populations must be managed carefully to protect our delicate ecosystems and native species. In these instances, I will use leather acquired through ethical, managed hunting practices.
By utilizing these skins, we honor the animal by ensuring nothing is discarded. We transform a necessary part of environmental stewardship into a durable, functional piece of art. This approach aligns with a deep respect for all animals—whether they are the prey animals we partner with or the ones we manage to keep our environment in balance.