Buying Leather
Purchasing leather is where all of your knowledge comes together in one important decision: tanning method, thickness, flexibility, and durability.
How Leather Is Sold
Leather may be sold by measured area (square foot or square meter) or by the section of the hide from which it was cut. When shopping online, you may find that a lot of nicknames, brand names, obscure categories, and synonyms are used, which can make finding the right leather difficult. Becoming familiar with common leather terms will help you find what you’re looking for.
If you can, go to a local leather store so you can inspect the quality of the hide in person and speak to someone knowledgeable about leather, hides, and projects. Each hide is unique in its shape and markings; try to find a piece that works for your templates. Remember: the most expensive leather is the piece you buy and can’t use.
Other Search Terms for Leather
| VEGETABLE-TANNED | BRIDLE | GARMENT |
| Oak leather Oak leaf leather Oak-tanned leather Hermann Oak (brand name) Strap leather Carving leather Tooling leather Bark-tanned leather |
English bridle “English” bridle English-style bridle Western bridle Harness leather Latigo Finished leather |
Chrome-tanned leather Chromexcel Upholstery leather Horween (brand name) Chap leather |
If you come across a term you haven’t seen before, check the Glossary for additional terminology not covered here.
Leather By the Hide
Whole hides and sides (half hides) are sold by the square foot or square meter but can vary considerably by shape and size.
Usable Area
Because of the natural curved shape of the neck, legs, and bellies, the usable area is often much smaller than the hide itself.
common Hide Cuts
There are many ways in which hides can be cut. These cuts are often priced by the piece.
best for beginners
If you can find them, double shoulders, which can be priced by piece rather than area, provide the best value for beginners.