Is this just a fad?

Being concerned with how we affect the environment is not a fad; it’s a moral and ethical commitment.  Scientific evidence has proved global warming exists, and although we may not be able to reverse it, we certainly should not exacerbate the problem.  EcoHides™ is the responsible solution for a cleaner leather tanning process.

Why don't the other tanners follow suit?

It’s a shift in mindset and a significant investment to switch from existing tanning methods.

Is the cost additive worth it to your customers?

Absolutely. Who doesn’t want to leave a legacy of a healthy environment for their children?  Also with the current methods, finished hides still emit toxic fumes that pollute your living environment.

Does the process take longer?

Tanning leather is a multi-part, time-consuming process regardless of the methods used.

Do the natural substances fade or wear out faster than chemically treated hides?

No but since they don’t use any UV coating, it is slightly more susceptible to fading in direct sunlight. That is why we don’t recommend it for the automobile interiors but we are working to develop a product that will stand up under those conditions.

What kind of research did you conduct to develop EcoHides™?

It’s been a long development process. Remember that tanning leather is a centuries old process and they didn’t always use toxic chemicals. We’re just going back to roots of the leather industry.

If the traditional process is so toxic to the environment why is the tanning industry not regulated?         

It’s a globally fragmented industry.  Most leather use has been limited in scope, but the rise of popularity of leather furniture has brought the material into our homes in large quantities and extended periods of time.

Why is leather such a popular fabric? What are the advantages of leather compared to other fabrics?

Over the course of the last two decades, it has become much more affordable and more accessible. The natural beauty of leather appeals to the consumer,  it's soft, durable and breathable. In many ways it is easier to clean and maintain and lasts longer.

What are the challenges of working with leather? In dyeing? In finishing? In manufacture? In design?

Working with leather is similar to working with any other upholstery material. Leather hides are generally thicker that textiles and require different machinery to create the upholstery.

What are the typical dyes used with leather? Are there any quality problems to look out for? Are there any regulatory problems?

A leather hide is a perishable skin converted into leather with the use of chemicals and acids. Generally heavy metals such as chrome are used in the tanning process. This process is highly regulated because of the V.O.C. emissions into the atmosphere and acid pollutants in the ground.

            EcoHides™ is tanned by all natural bio-degradable farm tree extracts.

What are the typical finishes used with leather? What are the advantages of using these finishes?

Leather can be finished into any color. EcoHides™ leather is printable and can be used in any design thus making it a very versatile material with which to work.

What level and kind of care does today's leather require from consumers?

EcoHides™ is an easy to maintain product requiring little care. Simply use a damp cloth to clean any spills and keep out of direct sunlight.

What are the alternatives to leather? Why use these alternatives instead of the real thing?

The alternatives materials to leather in general would be the use of any other textile or simulated leather. The alternative of working with EcoHides™ leathers would be all natural wool or all natural cotton materials.