Leather tanning in Morocco in traditional tanneries
In Morocco, traditional leather tanning takes place mainly in towns such as Fez and Marrakesh, where there is a long tradition in the industry. The leather tanning process in Moroccan tanneries is often done by hand and is based on ancient techniques that have been used for centuries.
Souk in Marrakesh, home to small, local tanneries.
The first step in the leather tanning process is preparing the hides. First, the hides are cleaned and then soaked in special vats to soften them.
Chouware in the city of Fez, the largest tannery in Morocco.
The next step is to tan the leather using natural substances. In tanneries in Morocco, the most commonly used tannins are those of plant origin, such as tannins from the roots of the sumac tree, oak bark or tannins obtained from pomegranate fruit. The leathers are soaked in special vats in tanning solutions for a specific time. This allows the tannins to penetrate deep into the leather, giving it durability and resistance to external factors.
Tannery in the city of Fez
After tanning the leather, the dyeing process begins. Natural tannins give the leather a brown color, but in order to obtain different shades, the leather is dyed using natural dyes such as saffron, indigo, cactus red or henna. The leathers are soaked in dye solutions again and then dried in the sun. We offer bags in natural colors and several bags in dark brown, dyed with henna, among them the very popular Alia bag
Natural colored skin patches
The final stage in the leather tanning process is finishing. The hides are smoothed to the desired softness and smoothness. Traditional finishing techniques are often used, such as beating the hide with wooden hammers, which give the hide a delicate texture. It is worth noting that traditional Moroccan tanneries often work in a narrow specialization. For example, some tanneries may specialize in tanning lambskins, while others produce cattle hides. In each tannery, skills are passed down from generation to generation, and the craftsmen use traditional tools and techniques to perform the leather tanning process in an authentic way and in accordance with Moroccan traditions.
The process of creating our Sami bag , made in Morocco
Once the leather tanning process is complete , the hides are ready to be used to produce various leather goods, such as handbags, shoes, belts, or gloves. Moroccan tanneries are known for their high-quality leather and handcrafted details, which are appreciated all over the world. It is worth adding that when visiting Morocco, you can visit traditional tanneries, where you can see the leather tanning process with your own eyes and learn more about the heritage and tradition of Moroccan leather craftsmanship.
All of the Moroccan handbags we offer are made from hand-tanned leather in traditional tanneries. Check out our offer and fall in love with authentic, carefully crafted leather products from exotic Morocco.
New shipment of bags from Morocco at the beginning of September!
See what bags will appear!
