Vegetable-tanned leather is manufactured by skilled artisans and leather connoisseurs. It is called “vegetable” due to the use of natural tannins in the process of tanning, such as tree bark. Veg tan, or vegetable tan, is the oldest method of tanning and has been known for centuries. Vegetable tanning methods are still in use in the leather industry.
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How is the vegetable-tanned leather formed?
This leather is formed through natural vegetable tannins. Tanning is a process in which the hides of animals are turned into leather. Various natural vegetable tannins are used to change the structure of the hide. These natural substances perform three important functions, such as preserving, strengthening, and giving color to your leather.
Trees used to make veg tan
The most commonly used tree species to make veg tan leather include Catechu, Willow, Chestnut, Mimosa, Birch, and Oak. For vegetable tanning, tree bark, roots, and leaves are often preferred because of their high tannin concentration.
Vegetable-tanned leather has advantages.
- Sturdy nature.
- Tanning is not harmful to the environment.
- Used for items such as holsters or saddles.
Vegetable-tanned leather has disadvantages.
- The methods of manufacturing vegetable-tanned leather require a large amount of water.
- It is expensive leather because it requires a professional craftsman to make it.
- The duration of making vegetable-tanned leather is almost two months.