In this blog, you’ll learn:

• How to properly store, handle, and condition vegetable-tanned leather sides to maintain their quality.
• Which products and tools to use – and avoid – when cleaning or finishing veg-tanned hides.
• Easy, practical tips to preserve colour, texture, and workability over time.

Vegetable-tanned leather is a favourite among traditional leatherworkers for good reason. It’s durable, natural, and develops a beautiful patina as it ages. But like any high-quality material, it deserves and requires the right care and attention. Whether you’re storing full veg-tanned leather sides in your workshop, preparing them for tooling, or finishing off a new belt or bag, the way you treat your leather has a lasting impact on its performance and appearance.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of caring for veg-tanned leather, from storage practices to cleaning techniques and conditioning tips. Whether you’re a seasoned craftsperson or just getting started, these practical pointers will help keep your materials – and your finished products – looking their absolute best.

1. Proper storage for leather sides

How you store your veg-tanned leather sides plays a crucial role in preserving their quality over time. Leather is a natural material, and it needs to be kept in a controlled environment to avoid damage from environmental factors like moisture and temperature changes.

• Keep it dry: Moisture can lead to mould or mildew, so always store your leather in a dry area, away from humid conditions. Avoid leaving leather near radiators or in direct sunlight, as heat can dry it out and cause cracking.
• Avoid folding or creasing: When storing leather, especially large sides, roll them loosely or store them flat to prevent unwanted creases or stress on the material. If you need to store them rolled, use a soft fabric or paper to gently cushion the leather.
• Use breathable covers: If you’re keeping leather sides in storage for a longer period, cover them with a cotton cloth or breathable canvas to protect them from dust, dirt, and direct sunlight while allowing air circulation.

2. Handling tips to prevent damage

When working with veg-tanned leather, always handle it with care. Its natural texture can be delicate, meaning improper handling can cause permanent marks or distortion.

• Clean hands: Always make sure your hands are clean and dry before touching leather. Dirt, oils, or moisture from your skin can transfer to the leather, affecting its finish and appearance.
• Work on a clean surface: Use a cutting mat or soft cloth to avoid scratching or damaging the leather while working. Be mindful of sharp tools and edges when cutting or shaping the leather, as these can cause permanent marks.
• Handle gently: Avoid unnecessary pulling, bending, or tugging at the leather. While veg-tanned leather is known for its durability, excessive force can lead to creases or warping.

3. Conditioning: When and how to do it

Leather needs to be conditioned periodically to maintain its suppleness and prevent it from drying out over time. The natural oils in the leather which give it flexibility and softness, can disappear as the leather ages.

• Condition after tooling or wet-working: If you’ve recently used water to dampen the leather for tooling or shaping, it’s important to restore moisture afterward. Use a high-quality leather conditioner or oil, such as neatsfoot oil or beeswax, to nourish the leather and keep it from becoming too stiff.
• When to condition: Conditioning is usually necessary after long periods of storage, heavy use, or if the leather begins to look dry or faded. As a rule of thumb, conditioning every 6 months to a year is a good starting point, depending on how often the leather is used.

Looking for inspiration about what to make with your natural veg tanned leather? Read our blog on the best uses for this material here.

4. Cleaning and maintenance

Over time, veg-tanned leather will naturally develop a rich patina, but proper cleaning is essential to keeping it looking its best.

• Clean with a damp cloth: For light cleaning, use a soft damp cloth to wipe away dirt or dust. Avoid soaking the leather, as excess moisture can lead to damage.
• Leather cleaners: If deeper cleaning is required, use a mild leather cleaner that’s suitable for vegetable-tanned leather. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t alter the colour or texture.
• Prevent stains: If leather encounters liquids or food, clean it promptly to prevent staining. Gently blot (don’t rub) the area with a clean cloth to absorb excess moisture.

5. What to avoid (and why)

To maintain the longevity of your veg-tanned leather, there are a few key things to avoid:

• Harsh chemicals: Avoid using cleaning products that contain solvents, ammonia, or alcohol, as these can strip away the natural oils and dry out the leather.
• Excessive water exposure: Veg-tanned leather can absorb water, so it’s important to keep it dry. If it does get wet, let it air dry naturally and avoid using heat sources like hairdryers or radiators, which can cause the leather to stiffen or crack.
• Direct sunlight and heat: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the leather to fade and dry out. Similarly, heat sources can cause the leather to lose its flexibility, leading to cracking and brittleness.

Ready to get the most from your veg-tanned leather?

Proper care makes all the difference. Whether you’re a seasoned leatherworker or just starting out, following the right storage, handling, and conditioning practices will keep your leather looking beautiful and lasting longer. Contact us today, and get to know what your leather needs.