Vegetable-Tanned Leather
Frequently asked questions
Can Vegetable-Tanned Leather be laser cut?
Yes: Vegetable-Tanned Leather can be laser cut. Adequate extraction/ventilation is required.
Can Vegetable-Tanned Leather be CNC machined?
No: Vegetable-Tanned Leather is not suitable for CNC milling.
Is Vegetable-Tanned Leather food safe?
No, Vegetable-Tanned Leather is not considered food safe.
Physical properties
| Tensile strength | 15.0 MPa |
|---|---|
| Moisture absorption | Medium |
Laser processing
Fumes contain carbonised residues of animal dermis proteins, with a strong, persistent burnt-hair odour. Vegetable tanning (based on natural tannins from tree bark) is safe, unlike chrome tanning, which releases toxic and carcinogenic Cr(VI). Extraction is still required.
CO₂: Exceptional laser workability. Engraving generates a natural dark, deep, sharp contrast with great aesthetic impact. Cutting seals the edges cleanly. Use a constant but moderate air jet to remove fumes and avoid halo effects from flare-ups.
Diode: Very good results on natural and dark-toned leather. Cutting is limited to small thicknesses (≤2mm) at high powers.
Fiber: Not applicable.
CNC / milling processing
Leather is flexible and fibrous, not machinable on traditional CNC rotary mills due to the high risk of fibre entanglement around the tool.
Plotter and thermoforming
Excellent on reduced thicknesses (≤1.5mm). Use plotters equipped with deep blades specific for thick materials or rotary blades and very high-adhesion mats.
Post-processing
Sanding: Dry-sandable on the back (flesh side) or on cut edges to even out thickness or prepare the leather for edge finishing. Produces fine fibrous dust.
Primer: Not applicable. Leather is finished with specific leather dyes, waxes, and sealants, not generic primers.
Gluing: Bondable with contact adhesive (neoprene) or polyurethane adhesives for leather. For a perfect joint, lightly sand the surfaces, apply adhesive to both sides, allow to dry, and press firmly.
Seasoning: Store in a dry environment. Vegetable-tanned leather is sensitive to moisture and can stiffen or develop mould in high humidity. Keep away from direct heat sources.
Over time: Over time and with exposure to sunlight and air, vegetable-tanned leather develops a beautiful amber patina, gradually darkening and gaining aesthetic value. This is a desirable characteristic in high-quality leather goods.
Common defects
- Burn marks or brownish halos on the top surface during laser cutting — preventable by applying masking tape before cutting
- Strong residual burnt smell that remains on the cut material for several days
- Sensitivity to water stains before surface finishing treatment
Safety
Always ensure the absolute absence of PVC in the material. Many synthetic faux leathers contain PVC and release hydrochloric acid (highly toxic and corrosive) if laser-cut.
Availability and formats
Commercial formats: whole shoulders and sides, cut strips, offcuts
Related materials
Sources
- Disciplinare del Consorzio Vera Pelle Conciata al Vegetale in Toscana
- ISO 17226 — Leather chemical determination of formaldehyde
Information on compatibility, processing parameters and safety is purely indicative. MakerSpecs accepts no liability for damage to persons or property arising from the use of this data. Always check the safety rules and the manufacturer's official manuals before carrying out any processing.