An Intro to Leather

WHAT IS LEATHER?
Leather has been around for thousands of years. In its simplest form, leather is the hide or skin of an animal, preserved through treatment by a mixture of natural tannins (a process called tanning). Throughout its existence, the processes by which leather is tanned and created have evolved drastically, resulting in many different categories and classifications of leather. This post aims to provide some clarity and insight to better understand the value and qualities associated with leather goods.

HOW IS LEATHER MADE?
The two most common tanning processes of leather are vegetable tanning and chrome tanning.

• Vegetable tanning is the original method of making leather, relying on natural tannins from tree bark and other plant sources. This process takes weeks to complete but results in a rich, full-bodied leather that develops a beautiful patina (finish) over time. It’s known for its signature "leather" scent, durability, and ability to age gracefully. However, it requires more care to maintain its longevity. Ozark Leather Co. currently uses vegetable tanned leather for all of its leather goods.
• Chrome tanning is a modern, chemical-based process that significantly speeds up production, often taking just 24 hours. While it lacks the distinctive aroma and aging properties of vegetable-tanned leather, it offers a softer, more flexible feel with increased water resistance and durability.

A quick note on genuine leather: most people are familiar with this term and assume that it denotes something that is made of real, authentic leather. However, this is an industry term for the quality of the leather, and refers to a lower-grade material made from bonded leather scraps. It’s essentially the plywood of leather—technically real, but lacking the durability and richness of full-grain or top-grain leather.

WHY ARE LEATHER GOODS SO EXPENSIVE?
When searching for leather goods online or browsing around a store that sells leather goods, you've likely thought to yourself, "Man, that is a lot of money for a wallet/bag/keychain," and you would be correct! Handmade leather goods, like wallets and bags, are expensive - but for good reason. Leather as a material is expensive. Raw hides are expensive, tanning the leather is extremely expensive and time-consuming, paying artisans to tan and treat the leather is expensive, importing leather from across the globe is expensive, and sourcing leather from a supplier is expensive. Thus, goods made of leather will be expensive because leather itself is a premium material, and learning to work with leather and make items from it takes a great deal of time, patience, skill, and artistry.

WHAT MAKES OUR PRODUCTS BETTER?
At Ozark Leather Co., we believe in crafting heirloom-quality leather goods that stand the test of time. Our goal isn’t to keep customers coming back for replacements—it’s to provide them with pieces that last for decades. Whether it’s a wallet, keychain, bag, or belt, our handcrafted leather goods are designed for those who appreciate quality, durability, and timeless style.

Ready to experience the difference? Explore our collection today and invest in leather goods that truly last.