Education

What do the names of ‘leather alternatives’ mean?

Vegan leather, pleather, leatherette – despite their names there is one thing all these materials have in common – they are not leather.

NFTs and Leather – Who Knew?

If designers want to stay relevant, it is vital they keep on top of new technology. Non-Fungible -Tokens are at the forefront right now, but do they have any role in the design and production of leather

Waste Not, Want Not: Leather’s Second Life

The creation of leather is the oldest form of recycling in the world. Now it takes hides from the meat and dairy industries that would otherwise go to waste and recycles them, reducing greenhouse gas emissions while creating a valuable, versatile material.

Would crops fed to cattle be used more effectively by feeding people?

Depending on whose estimate you take and how cattle are reared, it takes 20-40 kilos of feed to produce one kilo of beef. Those estimates often lead to the claim that if that feed were given directly to people it would nourish them more

Can cattle begin to tackle the food waste problem?

With as much as 40% of food produced worldwide ending up as waste, can we look to cows to provide a way to bring it back into the food chain?

Marginal gains- How cattle can make the most of the least productive land

When examining the arguments over arable versus beef production, it is important to remember not all land is suitable for growing crops. This land – marginal land – can support the grazing of cattle, which makes it more productive and sustainable.

Is leather really a by-product?

US hides have been valued at less than 2% of a cow’s total value for the last two years, which is why they are considered a by-product and often end up as waste.

Stitching, Lacing and Braiding

We take a look at some traditional techniques used in the manufacturing of leather

Do Leather Farms Exist?

Many animal rights campaigners claim that the use of leather contributes to the death of animals, it is also claimed that farms exist purely for the creation of leather – can this be true?

Regenerative Farming – Can cattle save the planet?

Back to the future – how a return to old ways can lead to healthy soil and a healthier environment.

Advice and opinion from Italy’s top design academics

Key figures from Italy's prestigious fashion and design schools give their thoughts on the importance of using real leather

JUST WHAT IS VEGAN LEATHER

If you’re planning on buying an ‘alternative’ to leather, make sure you know exactly what its manufacturing actually involves