What is Leather?
We all have a good idea of what leather is and where it comes from; that it is created from the tanning of the hides of animals – mainly cows. But what turns an animal hide into a fine accessory such as a supple leather glove or a robust briefcase?
The Science of Leather
Firstly, animal skins are obtained as by-products of the meat industry in the animals’ country of origin. Then, the hair is removed and the skins are tanned. This vital process converts the skins into a stable and consistent condition so that they can be further treated to produce different leather types.
After tanning, the resulting product is a distinctive blue colour, known as ‘Wet Blue’ – the outcome of the Chrome III salt used in the tanning process. The skins are then put through a selection process – according to type, weight and quality. It is this process which ensures that only the best material is used for manufacturing specific products – such as gloves, purses, shoes or belts.
After this, the leather is dyed to its required shade – no clues for guessing BLACK’s – and is then dried and worked further to improve its suppleness. It is therefore no surprise that the skills required to undertake these processes are highly-valued, blending modern technological developments with traditional craftsmanship.
What makes some leathers more luxurious than others?
BLACK uses highest-quality full-grain Nappa, Belting and Hair Sheep leather in its Leather Collection. These types of leather are most commonly used in speciality and luxury products owing to the coupling of softness with durability – meaning that these leathers can withstand the knocks of daily use.
Meanwhile, lower-grade leather or top-grain leather is made from inferior raw materials, with the natural grain removed and an artificial grain applied. Products made from this ‘top-grain’ leather are less hardwearing.
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