Ethical Sourcing
Our leather comes from U.S.-based tanneries that use hides sourced as byproducts of the food industry. No animals are raised for leather alone. This approach ensures that the hides are not contributing to additional demand for livestock but are instead part of a responsible, full-use cycle.
The tanneries we work with are members of the Leather Working Group (LWG) or follow similar strict environmental and ethical guidelines. They comply with all EPA regulations in the United States, including proper waste treatment and water management. These facilities operate with a high level of transparency and are regularly audited for both environmental impact and workplace practices.
Tanning Process
We exclusively use full-grain, vegetable-tanned leather, a traditional method that uses natural tannins from tree bark and other plant materials. This process is significantly more environmentally friendly than synthetic alternatives and results in a leather that ages beautifully—developing a unique patina over time that reflects your use.
Vegetable tanning takes longer and is more labor-intensive, but it produces a richer, more characterful material that is ideal for heirloom-quality leather goods.
Craftsmanship & Labor
Every Custom Hide product is handmade in our U.S. workshop by experienced artisans. We believe in fair labor practices and do not outsource manufacturing overseas. By keeping our production local, we ensure excellent working conditions and maintain full control over quality at every step.