Why We Choose Vegetable-Tanned Leather (And Why It’s Better for You and the Planet)
When I started Byrd Studio, I knew I didn’t want to make beautiful things at the cost of people or the planet. I wanted timeless, minimal accessories made slowly, thoughtfully, and with integrity. That journey led me to vegetable-tanned leather—a material that reflects everything we stand for.
Here’s why we use it—and why it’s worth caring about.
What Is Vegetable-Tanned Leather?
Vegetable tanning is one of the oldest and most traditional methods of tanning leather. It uses natural tannins found in tree bark, leaves, and plant matter to preserve and strengthen the hide. The process can take several weeks—far longer than modern chemical methods—but the result is a leather that’s durable, breathable, biodegradable, and beautifully individual.
Every hide has its own character. Over time, vegetable-tanned leather softens, deepens in tone, and develops a rich patina—a natural, worn-in beauty that reflects its journey with you. No two pieces age the same, making each one uniquely yours.
Why Not Chrome-Tanned Leather?
Chrome tanning is fast, cheap, and used in over 80% of the world’s leather. But it relies on toxic chemicals—including heavy metals like chromium salts—which pollute waterways and pose health risks to tannery workers.
While chrome-tanned leather can look nice initially, it doesn’t age as well and can crack or peel over time. It’s not designed to last—and often, it doesn’t.
Vegetable-tanned leather, by contrast, is a lifetime material. With care, it becomes softer and more beautiful with age, not worse.
And What About "Vegan" Leather?
We get asked this a lot. “Vegan leather” sounds sustainable—but in most cases, it’s just plastic.
Typically made from polyurethane (PU) or PVC, vegan leather is a petroleum-based material that doesn’t breathe, doesn’t last, and doesn’t break down. These plastics shed microplastics as they wear out and often end up in landfill after a short life.
While some plant-based innovations are emerging (like cactus and mushroom leather), many still rely on synthetic backing or chemical processing. For us, natural, biodegradable, full-grain leather remains the better, more honest choice.
A Material Made to Last (And Made the Right Way)
We work with tanneries that specialise in ethically produced vegetable-tanned leather. These are often family-run operations—keepers of old-world skills and slow craft.
Unlike mass-produced leathers, ours comes from small-batch production, with no shortcuts or synthetic coatings. It’s not about chasing trends or overproduction—it’s about honouring quality and producing pieces designed to be worn for years, not just seasons.
The Benefits
Natural & Chemical-Free: Tanned with bark, roots, and leaves—not harsh chemicals.
Durable & Repairable: Designed to last decades, not months.
Unique Aging: Develops a personal patina, unique to your wear.
Ethical: Often from small tanneries that treat workers and animals with care.
Biodegradable: Returns to the earth, not landfill.
Better for Skin: Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin.
Slow Fashion, Strong Values
At Byrd Studio, we’re part of the slow fashion movement—choosing fewer, better things made from real materials with real value. That’s why we use vegetable-tanned, full-grain leather in every accessory we make.
Because the things you carry every day should be made to last.
Because sustainability should never mean plastic.
And because craftsmanship still matters.
Thanks for choosing better with us.
– Sasha
Founder, Byrd Studio
