Leather

Leather is a natural material composed of flexible and durable collagen tissue obtained from the skins of domestic and wild animals (most commonly cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs). Its history dates back to prehistoric times—humans have used leather for clothing, coverings, and basic shelter for more than 30,000 years. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans developed early tanning techniques using plant tannins, oils, and smoke, while medieval guilds of tanners significantly refined leather processing methods. Processing involves removing hair, cleaning, soaking, degreasing, preserving, and especially tanning (using vegetable tannins or chromium salts), which transforms raw hide into leather—a soft, workable, and durable material suitable for further use. The leather is then dried, flattened, dyed, and surface-finished depending on its intended application. In the textile industry, leather is used for footwear, bags, belts, garments, gloves, interior accessories, and artistic objects. It is valued for its strength, durability, flexibility, and natural appearance, with each product being unique due to its natural grain. Leather is recyclable and also plays a role in sustainable fashion practices.