The type of tanning method used will depend on the intended use of the leather. There are three common types of tanning and also a number of finishing processes.

VEGETABLE TANNING

Thicker and heavier leather hides are the result of vegetable tanning. The color and type of leather that is produced by vegetable tanning is impacted by which tannins are present in the tanning solution. These tannins are predominately derived from chestnut and quebracho trees. The collagen in the leather hide absorbs the vegetable tannins and increases its rigidity making it a great choice for shoe sole leather. 

After being stretched on frames and agitated for up to nine days the potency of the tanning solution is boosted each day. Hides are then put into huge vats with the tanning solution. They are left to soak for three to six weeks. 

The hides are then thoroughly rinsed and again saturated with tanning solution as well as fish oil, and left to soak for five days. The processes are repeated so much to ensure that the tannins penetrate the hides completely and evenly.  

Now the leather hides are stretched onto frames and subjected to a hot water rinse, alkaline, acids and cold water rinse. Once this process is completed, the hides are stiff and fragile. This will be resolved during the finishing process.

CHROME TANNING

The chrome tanning process produces lighter leathers and is sometimes used to ready the leather hides for vegetable tanning. Using chromium sulfate, chrome tanning is a more efficient form of tanning, taking less time and producing a softer final product. 

Chrome tanning has two methods known as the one-bath method and the two-bath method. The one-bath method is the more widely used technique. In this process large rotating vats are filled with the chrome liquor and the pickled skins. The tanning liquor consists mostly of chromic sulfate but other chemicals are also included to aid the tanning process. 

When tanning is complete the skins are rinsed thoroughly and given a light alkaline treatment. Again the skins are washed to remove any salt that may remain. 

GLUTARALDEHYDE TANNING

Glutaraldehyde tanning is the quickest of all the tanning processes and produces high grade leather that can withstand alkaline. This makes glutaraldehyde tanned leather a popular choice for work boots in industries that are subject to alkaline based products. 

FINISHING PROCESSES

Finishing processes refer to the dyeing, drying, embossing and smoothing of the leather. Restoring the naturals oils lost during the tanning process, known as ‘stuffing’ or ‘fat liquoring’ is achieved by soaking the leather in big drums of oils until it has been absorbed. 

Depending on what the leather tannery desires the leather hides can be dyed or treated with other chemicals at this stage. This will largely depend on the intended use of the hide whether it be for clothing or upholstery leather.

The leather hides now need to be dried thoroughly. A machine with rollers forces excess moisture from the hides, before they are either hung or left to dry flat naturally. Depending on the type of wholesale leather hide required, embossing, sanding and buffing can now take place.

Leather may not be the material that first pops into your mind when considering new flooring for your home. But why shouldn’t it? Leather is naturally beautiful and luxurious as well as being durable. Leather tiles can also be colored and dyed according to individual taste, or to suit your existing interiors. 

Leather tiles are made using wholesale leather hides cut to size which are then stuck to wood, this process has made leather flooring less labor intensive to install. Once the tiles are laid, they are coated in a wax sealant which acts similarly to ceramic tile grout in filling any spaces, and making the leather tiles easy to keep clean. 

Leather tiles can be swept and vacuumed the same as most other flooring types and spills can be mopped up with a damp cloth. It is important that leather tiles are refinished each year however, depending on the amount of traffic as well as personal preference it can be left longer. Like upholstery leather used in furniture, natural leather hide looks better with age. If a well worn floor with a rich patina is what you are looking for, refinishing your leather tiles may be less of a priority. If the desired look is to keep the tiles in mint condition, they will need to be re-waxed more regularly. 

The enemy of a beautiful leather floor is direct sunlight and moisture. These factors can cause the leather to buckle and bubble, reducing both its appeal and durability. For these reasons, leather tiles should not be installed in areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. Leather tiles are much better suited to bedrooms, living rooms and offices. Leather tiles can also be used on walls and ceilings; this is particularly popular in theatre rooms as the leather will naturally absorb sound, lessening echo and enhancing sound quality. 

Leather tiles can be self installed however some important factors will contribute to either the success or failure of the job. It is imperative that the leather tiles are unpacked and stored for at least two weeks in the room where you intend to install them. Remember that leather is a natural material that breathes, and letting the tiles adjust to their new environment is essential. Preparing your existing floor is also important because any uneven surfaces can potentially show through once the tiles are laid. After making sure the existing floor is smooth and clean, read the instructions before you start. Leather should be considered as an investment, and correct installation will ensure you capitalize on that investment. 

An ethical choice for consumers is also available when it comes to leather flooring. Leather needn’t come directly from the leather tannery as tiles made from recycled leather can be purchased. These tiles are made from old furniture, breathing new life into old upholstery leather. Tiles made from wholesale leather hides are sort after for their durability and beauty, and this distinctive flooring type is sure to be the talking point of your home.