What is leather made of?

Leather is created by using the skins or hides of animals. Leather is commonly made from the skin of cows, goats, pigs and sheep.

People have been using leather since ancient times. Early evidence of leather products dates back 40,000 years. Primitive civilizations tanned animal skin for clothing as well as shelter.

Cows have a very thick skin and therefore, produce some of the strongest and most durable types of leather. Tanning is the process in which leather is made, and chemicals are used to process and preserve the hide.

Common items created with leather include shoes, belts, jackets, luggage, handbags and furniture.