This book offers a whistle-stop guide to the history of leathercraft and tanning. The story begins in prehistory when people discovered, perhaps by chance, that skins exposed to smoke or accidentally soaked in autumnal puddles lasted longer. Skins were a valuable resource, used for everything from clothing to shelter, blankets and vessels. The book looks at evidence that shows us how tanning and leather continued to be of prime importance across the globe throughout history, in economic as well as functional terms. The second part of the book brings us up to date, via interviews with modern day leather crafting artisans. These leather crafters generously allowed the author access to their studios and discussed the way they use and adapt traditional methods, techniques and tools for the twenty first century. Photos of their craft, and their working environment offers a unique window into the world of leathercraft. Finally, if you are inspired to try your hand at this fascinating and most ancient of crafts, the book also has a resources section. It includes a valuable list of suppliers of leather, dyes, tools and tanning materials, as well as information about training courses, useful websites and more-everything you need to get started. AUTHOR: Lynn Huggins is a widely published author. When she is not writing, she is in the studio creating art for exhibition. She is a textiles artist, working in natural and found materials, and mixed media, and her work is influenced by the 360 hectare woodland that begins at the bottom of her garden. She is a member of the Heritage Crafts Association, and the International Felt makers Association. She lives with her husband and daughter in the north east of England.
32 illustrations