Why Leathercraft Beginners Should Start with Vegetable-Tanned Leather?
At the start of each new year, many people make resolutions. Some want to learn new skills, find a partner, or retire early. If you're looking to start leathercraft, congratulations! It can be an exciting and rewarding journey.
For beginners, choosing the right type of leather is important. Vegetable-tanned leather is a good choice for those just starting. Here’s why:
1. Natural and Eco-Friendly
Vegetable-tanned leather is made using natural tannins derived from plant sources such as tree bark and leaves. This approach not only benefits the environment but also free from harmful chemicals, making it safer for crafters and also people who use it or wearing it.
2. Versatile and Flexible
Vegetable-tanned leather is flexible. You can easily shape, mold, and dye it, which lets beginners try different leathercraft techniques.
You can mold it just by using water. Check out this video for the wet molding technique: Wet Molding Leather.
I tried this technique and made a pair of pea-shaped earrings. I really like how they turned out!
3. Good for Tooling and Stamping
You can add decorations to your leatherwork if you use vegetable-tanned leather with some stamping tools. It is easy to tool and stamp because it’s softer, and people usually add a little water before tooling. It's also better to choose thicker leather for deeper carvings, which makes your designs more detailed and noticeable.
4. Durability
Vegetable-tanned leather is known for its strength and durability. It holds up well over time, developing a rich patina that enhances its character. For beginners, creating long-lasting pieces provides a sense of accomplishment and encourages continued crafting.
While vegetable-tanned leather isn't cheap, beginners can start with smaller pieces. There are sellers that offer affordable scraps, which are great for small projects like bracelets, coin purses, card holders, and earrings.
Starting your leathercraft journey with vegetable-tanned leather is a great choice. It’s natural, versatile, and durable, making it perfect for beginners. Working with this leather will improve your skills and help you enjoy the craft even more.
5. Repairable
One of the standout features of vegetable-tanned leather is its ability to be easily repaired or modified. If you make a mistake while crafting, you can often fix it by reworking the leather. For instance, you can cut, dye, or retool areas that didn’t turn out as planned.
If the leather gets scratched or damaged, you can often buff it out or use a matching dye to restore its appearance. Additionally, since vegetable-tanned leather can be wet-molded, you can reshape it if needed. This forgiving nature makes it particularly beginner-friendly, as it encourages experimentation and learning without the fear of permanent mistakes.
*Disclaimer: This blog contains affiliate links, including Amazon links. I may earn a commision from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
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