Understanding Chrome Tan vs. Veg Tan Leather
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Leather Tanning Process & Qualities
The most notable difference between chrome and veg tan leathers is how they’re created. The leather may be from the same source (for example, cowhide or buffalo leather), but the tanning treatments they undergo give them completely different characteristics.
But to understand how a tanning technique changes a hide’s qualities, it’s important to first understand what happens during the tanning process. In simple terms, tanning chemically alters an animal skin’s protein structure to make the skin more durable and resistant to decomposing. Hides may also be dyed during tanning, but that isn’t required.
Tanning involves soaking skins in a mixture for a set period of time. The contents of the mixture and the soaking time vary based on the type of tanning. There are a few different types of tanning, and we cover those in more detail in our blog, “Leatherworking A to Z: General Leather Terms to Know.” For this blog, we’ll focus on vegetable tanning and chrome tanning. Let’s break down the specifics of each tanning process now.
Vegetable Tanning
Vegetable tanning is a traditional leather processing method that has been used for centuries. In this method, tannins extracted from tree bark, leaves and other vegetation provide the treatment power. That’s why this method is called “vegetable tanning.” This is the most environmentally friendly leather tanning process, since it uses only renewable, naturally derived tannins.
Hides are stretched onto frames and soaked in a large vat of natural tannin solution. This process is slow, taking several weeks to months, but the wait produces gorgeous leathers in earthy shades such as brown, beige and red. Vegetable tan, or veg tan, leather is normally left untreated and undyed after tanning, creating a blank slate for bespoke leather creations.
Top Veg Tan Properties:
- Patina: Natural veg tan leather actually looks better with age. It patinas over time, developing a greater depth of color and eye-catching sheen. An item’s patina is based on how it’s used, giving every item a one-of-a-kind look.
- Easy to Shape: Veg tan leather tends to be firm and hold its shape well, making it ideal for structured items or wet molding. If a structured project calls for some flexibility, you can condition veg tan to make it softer and more pliable.
- Easy to Burnish: Veg tan also compacts well for edge burnishing, allowing you to create sleek, polished edges to give any project a professional finish. Burnished edges can stand alone or provide a smooth surface for edge paint.
- Easy to Color: Veg tan leather absorbs dye well, allowing for rich, deep colors. It can be dyed using various techniques, including dip dyeing and airbrushing. Paint adheres firmly to the leather surface as well.
- Ideal for Tooling: If a project calls for stamping, carving or other tooling techniques, vegetable tan leather is recommended for its ability to permanently hold detailed impressions.
Chrome Tanning
Chrome tanning was first introduced in the mid-1800s, making it a much more modern leather treatment method compared to veg tan. This method primarily uses chromium salts to treat leather — hence the name “chrome tanning.” Chrome tan hides can also be dyed during the tanning process. Those that aren’t dyed usually take on a slight bluish tinge from the chromium salts.
In this tanning method, hides are first cleaned and then soaked in a chromium salt solution. This process is very quick compared to veg tanning, taking only a few days to complete. That’s why chrome tanning is the most widely used method for commercial leather production today.
Top Chrome Tan Properties:
- Flexibility: Chrome tan leather’s softness and flexibility make it ideal for projects that require a supple touch and don’t need to retain a shape on their own.
- Water Resistance: Chrome tanning stabilizes the collagen fibers in leather, increasing its water resistance. Chrome tan resists soaking up water and is less likely to sustain moisture damage. It can be treated to maintain this resistance.
- Heat Resistance: Fiber stabilization also helps the leather resist damage from high temperatures. It generally holds up against brief heat exposure in everyday use and should be conditioned as needed to maintain its flexibility.
- Color Options: Most chrome tan leathers come from the tannery dyed and finished. These ready-to-use hides are available in a huge variety of colors, ensuring you get just the right look for your project with no extra work.
- Even Aging: Chrome tan leather maintains its original appearance over time and does not patina. You can expect consistent color from chrome tan leather goods, even after years of use.
Response to Crafting Techniques
Naturally, these leathers’ different qualities affect how well common crafting techniques work with them. We covered a few techniques above, but there are other methods to consider as well. Use this helpful chart to determine how well the leather type you want to use will take to skiving, beveling, laser cutting and more.
How to Use Each Leather Type
Now that you know the main properties of each of these leathers and how they respond to various leatherworking tasks, you may have a good idea of which you need for your next project. But if you need some inspiration, read on. We’ve created a list of projects that each leather would excel in to help you get your crafting journey underway.
Veg Tan Projects
A durable, easy-to-color leather that holds its shape and looks better with age, veg tan is an excellent choice for:
- Accessories: Wallets, belts, guitar straps and other rigid accessories.
- Animal Accessories: Saddles, harnesses, collars, leashes and more.
- Protective Gear: Workshop aprons, welding gloves and other PPE.
- Protective Storage: Tool rolls, camera cases, sheaths and other solutions.
- Tooled Projects: Book covers, key fobs and other personalized items.
- And more!
Chrome Tan Projects
With its softness, flexibility, consistent coloration, and water and heat resistance, chrome tan leather is ideal for:
- Bags: Handbags, backpacks, duffle bags, totes and more.
- Clothing: Jackets, skirts, pants and other apparel options.
- Accessories: Watch straps, gloves and other flexible accessories.
- Footwear: Shoes and boots, especially for outdoor wear.
- Upholstery: Upholstery and cushions for home, boat or auto/RV use.
- And more!
Of course, many of these project suggestions aren’t exclusive to one leather type over the other. There is some overlap between uses — for example, you can make a watch strap or a bag from either leather. In cases like that, choose the leather that has qualities that most closely match what you want your finished project to have. You can even use these two leathers in the same project if it calls for some qualities of both!
Wrapping Up
In summary, chrome and veg tan leathers are both excellent material options for a variety of DIYs. Your choice comes down to which variety will best serve your unique project’s specific needs. Understanding the qualities and best uses of each leather will help you create beautiful, functional leather goods.
Explore a vast range of creative possibilities when you shop these versatile materials at Sailrite®! Our always-expanding inventory includes different weights and cuts of both leather types, as well as the tools, dyes, hardware and more that you need to make your project come to life. When you trust Sailrite, you’ll never be left wondering where to buy leather.
If you want to learn more about leatherwork, check out our Beginner’s Guide to Leather Craft Series. This five-part blog series features detailed videos that will teach you everything you need to know to master the fundamentals of this timeless craft. Click here to start learning.
We hope this blog answered all your questions about veg tan and chrome tan leather. If there’s still something you’re wondering about, reach out to us. Our knowledgeable customer service team and in-house leather expert will help you find the answers you’re looking for.
