If you are a leather enthusiast, then you have probably heard of the term "Shell Cordovan." It is a type of leather that is often associated with high-end shoes, wallets, and other leather products. In this blog post, we'll delve into what Shell Cordovan is, how it's made, and why it's so highly regarded.
What is Shell Cordovan?
Shell Cordovan is a type of leather that is made from the hindquarters of a horse. The leather is taken from a specific part of the horse known as the "shell," which is a thin layer of tissue found just beneath the hide. The shell is then treated and tanned using a traditional process that involves soaking the leather in a blend of natural oils and dyes.
The resulting leather is known for its unique properties. Shell Cordovan is extremely dense, making it highly durable and resistant to wear and tear. It is also non-porous, which means it is naturally water-resistant and will not easily absorb moisture. In addition, Shell Cordovan is known for its distinctive shine, which is achieved through a labor-intensive process of hand polishing.
How is Shell Cordovan made?
The process of making Shell Cordovan is long and laborious, but it is necessary to achieve the high-quality leather that is so highly regarded. First, the hides are cleaned and soaked in water to remove any impurities. Next, the shells are separated from the rest of the hide and cut into smaller pieces. The pieces are then placed into vats of natural oils and dyes, where they are left to soak for several months.
After the soaking process is complete, the leather is tanned using a combination of vegetable tanning and chrome tanning. This process helps to stabilize the leather and enhance its durability. Finally, the leather is hand polished with a series of wax and oil layers, which results in its distinctive shine.
Why is Shell Cordovan so highly regarded?
Shell Cordovan is highly regarded for its unique properties and unparalleled quality. It is an extremely durable and long-lasting leather that ages beautifully with use. The non-porous nature of Shell Cordovan makes it naturally water-resistant, making it a popular choice for shoes and wallets. In addition, its distinctive shine is a sign of quality and craftsmanship.
In conclusion, Shell Cordovan is a unique and highly prized type of leather. Its properties make it ideal for high-end leather products, such as shoes and wallets. While the process of making Shell Cordovan is long and laborious, the resulting leather is of unparalleled quality and durability. If you are looking for a leather product that will last a lifetime and only improve with age, then Shell Cordovan is definitely worth considering.
If you are looking for a Shell Cordovan custom made item, do not hesitate to contact us and we will help you with the choice and process.