Traditional Tanning; Leather and Furskin

Leather has been tanned by many cultures for thousands of years. During the transition to an industrial chemical process, much knowledge of tanning using traditional methods with natural substances has been lost. The author, Lotta Rahme has spent years trying to document and preserve this knowledge. Her tannery and studio are based in the medieval town of Sigtuna, Sweden. For over 30 years she has been studying and working with the art of traditional tanning. Much of her knowledge has been acquired directly from Inuit, Native American, Sami and Ainu women. She has exhibited, lectured, and led courses extensively throughout the Nordic region. Traditionally tanned leather is a wondrous product. It is resistant to rot, when wet, but retains the strength, flexibility and suppleness of raw hide, when dry. There are many different ways to tan hides and furs. This book contains sections on the history, methods and chemistry of traditional tanning. It also includes practical recipes using such as fish liver oil, rapeseed oil, bark and alum. It discusses the methods best suited for various animals from goat, to ostrich and moose.