: The gold standard. It includes the entire natural grain of the hide, showcasing unique markings like scars or bug bites. It is the strongest and most durable option.
: Uses natural plant tannins (like tree bark). It is typically stiffer, smells "woody," and develops a rich patina over time. It is essential for tooling, carving, or stamping.
: Uses chromium salts to process hides in days rather than months. This results in soft, supple leather available in a vast array of vibrant colors. It is ideal for garments, upholstery, and bags that don't require structural stiffness.
: Not a true hide; it consists of leather scraps shredded and glued together. 2. Choosing the Right Tannage
Buying leather hides online offers an unparalleled selection compared to local craft stores, but it requires a specialized vocabulary to ensure you receive the right material for your project. Because you cannot feel the "temper" (stiffness) or smell the tannage through a screen, successful online purchasing depends on deciphering technical specs and choosing reputable suppliers. 1. Decoding Leather Grades and Types