About Leather
The Leather We Use
Not all leather is created equal. At Old Country Leather, we exclusively work with full-grain and top-grain leathers—the highest quality grades available.
Understanding Leather Grades
The leather industry has a hierarchy, and it matters:
- Full Grain – The strongest, most durable leather with natural grain intact
- Top Grain – Premium leather with a refined surface
- Split Grain – Lower quality, less durable
- Genuine Leather – Despite the name, this is low-grade material
- Bonded Leather – Scraps and fibers glued together
We use only the top two grades because they're built to last a lifetime.
Our Materials
We work primarily with cowhide and water buffalo hides, selecting each piece for its strength, grain pattern, and character. Every hide is unique—natural markings, scars, and grain variations make each piece we craft truly one-of-a-kind.
Vegetable-Tanned Leather
Much of our work uses vegetable-tanned leather, processed with natural tree bark tannins rather than chemicals. This traditional method produces leather that:
- Develops a rich patina over time
- Can be tooled, carved, and stamped
- Ages beautifully with use
- Represents centuries-old craftsmanship
Built to Last
High-quality leather doesn't wear out—it wears in. Scratches add character. Daily use creates a patina that tells your story. With proper care, our leather goods are built to outlast trends and become heirlooms.
That's the difference between genuine craftsmanship and products that simply say "genuine leather" on the tag.
