Leather in the Middle Ages: tanning processes and leather articles episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 4, 2026 · 22 MIN

Leather in the Middle Ages: tanning processes and leather articles

from Cut and Thrust - Your Journey Through the Middle Ages · host Battle-Merchant

#medieval #leather #craftsmanship In this episode, Hendrik and Carmen show you how raw animal hide became the indispensable material of the Middle Ages. Today we dive into the fascinating world of tanneries and discover why this craft was so much more than just leather production. From the earliest preservation methods of the Stone Age to the specialized guilds of the late Middle Ages - leather was THE durable material for everything: clothing, armor, tools, even cooking vessels! We explain the different tanning processes like bark tanning and chamois tanning, show why tanneries were located on the outskirts of towns, and how dangerous the profession was due to anthrax. Particularly fascinating: how you could cook with hot stones in leather pouches and why animal hides even served as currency. Learn also how the guild system professionalized the craft and why nothing was wasted - from gelatin production to parchment making for important documents. Enjoy, and see you next time! #tannery #medievalcraft #guildsystem #leathermaking Battle-Merchant: https://www.battlemerchant.com/ Battle-Merchant Blog: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/ Blog post for this episode: https://www.battlemerchant.com/en/blog/leather-in-the-middle-ages-tanning-processes-and-leather-articles TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@battlemerchant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/battlemerchant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/battlemerchant Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.de/battlemerchant/

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Leather in the Middle Ages: tanning processes and leather articles

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