Recently, chromium tanning has received some negative publicity while vegetable tanning has been in the spotlight.  Many designers question whether “chrome-free” leather is really the preferred option.  In order to answer that question, it is important to understand the differences between both tanning methods.  

Chromium tanning is the most widely used method of leather tanning, accounting for approximately 80-85% of all leather production.  Trivalent chromium (Cr III) is the type of chromium that has been used for leather tanning throughout the 20th century and is considered safe for leather production.  Trivalent chromium compounds occur naturally in the environment.  They are found in rocks, soil, plants and volcanic emissions.  Chromium salts are easily reproduced and are very cost effective. Hexavalent chromium (Cr VI) is a proven carcinogen.  It is not used nor generated by the tanneries.  Chromium tanning requires one-half to one-third less chemicals needed by other tanning methods.  In addition, the collagen chromium bond is stronger than with vegetable and synthetic tannins, making the leather more easily biodegradable than vegetable tanned leather.  Chromium tanning results in leather with a very soft, supple hand that may be dyed into a wide range of colors.  Chromium tanned leather is very versatile and may be used for a variety of upholstery applications.

Vegetable tanning, on the other hand, requires tannins that are obtained from bark, wood, leaves or other parts of plants or trees.  Three or four times the amount of vegetable material is needed to tan leather compared to chromium.  The reduced fixation of chemicals to the hides leads to higher waste and results in products that are less biodegradable.  Vegetable tanning tightens the grain on the hides, producing more firm, rigid leather.  Vegetable tanned hides have limited color options and are less versatile for modern upholstery applications.

Regardless of which tanning method is used, the Italian government has strict controls on the amount of waste generated by tanneries.  Water usage is very efficient, tanning baths are closely measured and controlled, and residual water is re-used whenever possible.  Water purification centers are in place that cleanse the water and return it to the environment actually cleaner than it originally started.

So, is vegetable tanned leather better then chromium tanned?  We’ll let you be the judge.

Sources:  Leather Magazine

              International Union of Leather Technologists and Chemists Societies

New Sales Representatives

J Russell Group
J Russell Group has a showroom located in Atlanta, Georgia, where Garrett’s full product line will be on display. David Simpson will be promoting Garrett’s products to architects and interior design firms throughout Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi.

phone: 404.816.7600

email: SimpsonDavid@bellsouth.net

Calcaterra
The rep firm Calcaterra, located in Phoenix, Arizona, will be promoting Garrett’s products throughout Arizona and New Mexico.

phone: 602.331.5019

email: Kelly@cfbcalc.com

Trade Show Wrap-Up

Sky Rugs Sale!

All in-stock Patterned Steerhide Rugs are now on sale for 60% off.  Hurry!  This is a limited time offer, while supplies last. Click here for more information.