Page 12 - May2008

May 2008 THE NATIONAL 'BU'T'Ton BULLETIN 65

MATERIAL MATTERS by Vicky Mayhall, Guest Contributor

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amd
/~ ~ Iu6 UJj/e amd doUuxt!Mm.
Genesis 3:21

When I was contemplating writing an award for leather a few years ago,
I realized that I didn't have a "road map" to put the tray together or to do a
judging sheet. Leather is included in Section 15 - OTHER MATERIALS
under Class 15- 3 Unlisted in our NBS Classification booklet. Taking cues
from other material sections, I have put together an UNOFFICIAL listing
of techniques and types for those looking to assemble trays or write awards
for leather buttons. - VM

IT IS THOUGHT that hides were the earliest material available to man. Animal
skin was used for clothing and decoration because of its superior insulating
properties and ease in working.

LEATHER TYPES

Hide - Animal pelts with the fur/hair, feathers or scales removed are called
hides. Fresh hides are preserved in a salt solution and delivered to processing
companies. The tanning process begins with a lime solution to remove hair
and excess flesh. Processing continues with "chrome tanning" where hides are
tumbled in large barrels with chemical preservatives that strengthen the leather
and reduce shrinkage. Further treatment includes oils for lubricating and soften-
ing, and other chemicals for adding firmness, tear strength and color fastness,
depending on the type of leather desired. Dye may also be added to stain the
leather to a finish color.