What is vegetable tanning? The appeal of natural leather and how it's made

What is Vegetable Tanning? The Appeal of Nume Leather and How It's Made

Have you been hearing the term "vegetable tanning" more often lately?
For leather enthusiasts, the term "Nume leather" might be more familiar.

In fact,
Vegetable tanned leather
Veg-tan
Plant-tanned leather
Nume leather
All of these terms refer to the same type of leather, they are just different ways of calling it, and all are correct.

What is vegetable tanning?

This leather is made by using plant tannins to slowly soak animal hides (mainly cowhide) in large tanks called tanning vats.

"Tanning" refers to the process of treating skin to prevent decay and transform it into soft, supple "leather."

The tannins used come from the bark of plants such as "quebracho," "mimosa," and "chestnut," and the concentration and blend of these components are adjusted according to the desired finish of the leather.

The key to the finish is "time" and "effort"

This vegetable tanning process takes a considerable amount of time, ranging from several weeks to over half a year, and is carried out meticulously.
The texture, color, and feel of the leather vary greatly depending on this period and the "recipe" of the tannins used.

Leather that has been slowly tanned over time possesses a natural texture and a distinctive firmness and resilience, boasting the beauty and durability unique to genuine leather.

Why are genuine leather products expensive?

What we've just covered is only a small part of the leather manufacturing process.
In reality, many more steps and much more time are invested.

Therefore, it's only natural that genuine leather products feel expensive.
But it's not "because they're expensive," but "because they're worth it."

With respect and affection for leather

At BLINK SCISSORS CASE, every time new leather arrives, we recall this process and tailor each scissor case with dedication.

It's not just a product, but a tool where the craftsman's passion and the beauty of the material merge.
We would be delighted if it could become a "companion" that accompanies you in your daily salon work.

BLINK SCISSORS CASE Tanaka