Traditional leather processing using domestic methods in Estonia

Abstract

This article provides an overview of the traditional domestic leather processing methods used in Estonia throughout history, as well as of the research papers on leather processing that have been published or have yet to be published in Estonian. There is also an overview of the main leather processing and tanning methods (vegetable tanning, alum tawing and flour tanning). Based on her own experience, the author gives a detailed description of traditional leather processing with a fermented flour mixture (flour tanning) as one of the oldest and most widespread methods of processing hides with fur. The article also gives an overview of the current situation of traditional leather processing using domestic methods in Estonia.

Keywords: animal hide, tanning, leather dressing methods