As a leather supplier, I get asked all the time what leather to use or what leather thickness is best for a certain project. Hopefully this post will help you in determining the perfect material for your next project. Or possibly it will serve as a guide if you are looking to expand your product offerings.

Decide what item/items you want to make. Not all leathers are created equally. Most leathers were designed for a specific function, Harness leather was created for equestrian driving harness. Harness leather than will not make a very good purse. Determining what type of products you are wanting to make will narrow down your leather choices and suppliers. Determine your budget- making a variety of products will require different thicknesses of leather. Keep in mind customers often want a choice of colors on most items. One way to keep your inventory low is by buying a natural vegetable tanned leather and hand dying each product in different colors. Another option is buying drum dyed leathers, the sky is the limit in regards to leather options, colors, finishes. Your budget will be the deciding factor. Choosing the correct leather- this is often where having a trusted supplier, or someone with leather working experience can save you both money and headaches. I will explain the basics of our line of leathers and other commonly sought leathers further down in the post. Once you have determined what you want to make and your budget, call around to some suppliers and get prices. Take into account order minimums, lead times and shipping costs. For international customers, one way to keep cost’s down is using a shipping consolidator or freight forwarding company. Talk with your supplier and ask what they recommend based on what you want to make, they will know better than anybody which leathers are going to work and which won’t. Do not be afraid to ask, the leather crafting community is filled with great people willing to offer advice and guidance.

Here is a quick description of our leathers based on our tannages. Keep in mind every tannery has different tanning formulas but the leathers are “generally” similar in intended use. For example bridle leather from Tannery X or Tannery Y will be similarly suited for horse bridles. Differences in leather and tanneries will be noticed with time and experience, what works for one company may not work for you.Try as many different leathers as you can, some tanneries have minimums, some do not. Tannery X may have great leather and horrible service, you will learn as you progress in the craft. This is a quick way for beginners to narrow down the search for the appropriate leather.

Bridle leather- Our bridle leather is made using old world craftsmanship with the highest quality oils and tallow’s. This leather will cut beautifully, burnish to perfection and most importantly maintain its strength and temper for years to come. Bridle leather is best suited for applications requiring both strength and looks. Products such as belts, horse tack and small leather goods are great uses for this versatile leather. Available in a variety of colors and varying weights including 3/4oz, 4/5oz, 6/7oz, 10/12 and 13/15oz. Colors available include Black, Coffee, Qtan, Walnut, Tan, Chestnut. **Note- not all leathers are stocked in each weight.**

Latigo Leather- Our Latigo leather is often imitated but never duplicated. This special formula of Chrome-Vegetable re-tanned leather offers you the best of both worlds. Very high strength, durability and temper all while maintaining its original beauty and color. Originally designed for use in the equine trade, our latigo leather is offered in a variety of colors and finishes to fit your exacting demands. This leather is most commonly used in equine, belting and fetish applications. Weights range from 5oz to 12/14oz. Colors available include Burgundy, Black, Brown. Other colors available depending on application.

Harness Leather- Our Harness leather is hand selected from the finest US Steers to create the most durable leather on the market.When you need your product to outlast the user this is what you choose. Filled with oils and tallow our Harness leather will make the finest Harness, reins or any other product where strength is demanded. Our two main colors of Harness are Russet and Black, weights available are 10/12oz, 13/15oz and 15/17oz

Skirting Leather- Skirting leather is the tried and true workhorse of our offerings. Our skirting leather will carve beautifully, stamp with ease and take oil evenly. Perfect for saddles, tack or any other project requiring strength and durability. Ideally suited for saddles and tack, though is also used in casual belts, weightlifting belts, and other high strength applications. We currently offer our skirting leather in Golden, Qtan, Walnut, Chestnut, Mahogany, Doa, Black. Weights available are 10/12oz, 13/15oz, and 15/17oz.

Strap Leather- Our strap leather is hand selected from our skirting and dry split to weight. This 100% vegetable tanned leather will mold to perfection and take oils and dyes evenly and quickly. Perfect for holsters, wallets and personal leather goods. Weights range from 4oz to 9/10oz. Stocked in natural only though other colors offered.

Oil Tan Leather- The term oil tan has become a catchall for any leather which has a waxy or oily feel. These leathers come in a variety of colors, tannages and thicknesses. Common uses for oil tan include boots, chaps, personal leather goods and many more items. Let your supplier know what you are looking to make and they can guide you to your best options.

If you have made it this far you may be wondering okay great, I know the basics now but where can I buy this leather? You can email me at Markcoxon01@gmail.com or check out my instagram page @markcoxon01. I also can be reached by phone at 502–315–0315. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have and I look forward to working with you.