Leather Industry Glossary

Leather Industry Glossary - A collection of frequently used terms, abbreviations and jargons used in the Leather Industry with their definition and meanings.

Retanning

A process subsequent to the main tannage when the character of the leather is adjusted by the addition of further alternate types of tanning material. Thus synthetic or vegetable tans may be added to a chrome leather to adjust certain characteristics.

Roans

Sumac tanned sheepskins.

Rockers

A device for the continuous agitation of hides when suspended in pits or vats in order to hasten the operation of the liquors.

Rolling

One of the final operations in the manufacture of sole leather, by which it is given a smooth surface and even thickness.

Russia Leather

Leather characterised by its odour. "Anglo Russias" are skins treated with birch tar oil to imitate the smell of Russia leather. “The Russians have manufactured for a long time a variety of red leather called Juncten. This leather has an agreeable and characteristic odor, does not mould even in damp places, and is not attacked by insects.

Russia Leather

Originally and properly calfskin shoe leather, dressed with birch oil and distinguished by its odour rather than its appearance.