Vegetable-tanned cowhide leather is made from cowhide using tannins derived from plant materials. Because it comes from a natural hide, the leather shows variation in grain, thickness, and surface markings.
Handling Notes
- Vegetable-tanned leathers can be easily manipulated by wetting, shaping, and drying
- They are simple to dye, antique, paint, and seal for lasting effects
- Carving quality depends on moisture: too wet can look messy; too dry may tear
- Use distilled water to wet the leather
- Avoid handling with oily hands, as oils can affect dye absorption
How do you use this material in your practice?
I hand tool, stamp, and carve this leather to create permanent three dimensional designs. I often burnish the edges for a very durable and smooth waxy edge. It is great for sewing as an appliqué on other types of leather.
In Use
Have you used this material?
Please contact Mellanee Goodman, Program Director, Curator, and Materials Specialist, to start a conversation about submitting your work for inclusion on this site.
mgoodman@centerforcraft.org