Subject
Leather Books
Best books
H. R. (Henry Richardson) Procter
The Principles of Leather Manufacture
"The Principles of Leather Manufacture" by H. R. Procter is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The book explores the intricacies of the leather manufacturing process, emphasizing both the historical methods and the modern scientific principles that underpin this age-old craft. It aims to bridge the gap between practical tanning techniques and theoretical chemistry, targeting both chemists and professionals in the leather trade. The beginning of the work introduces the origins of leather manufacture, tracing back to prehistoric times when humans utilized animal skins for clothing. Procter outlines how early techniques evolved from primitive methods of rubbing animal fats onto skins to the more refined processes we see today, including tanning with vegetable materials and methods involving salts and alum. He hints at the significant advancements made in the industry, mentioning historical references from texts like the "Iliad," and foreshadows a detailed discussion on the chemistry involved in converting animal hides into durable leather, setting the stage for a comprehensive exploration of tanning methods.
Hugh Garner Bennett
Animal Proteins
"Animal Proteins" by Hugh Garner Bennett is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The text serves as a detailed exploration of animal proteins, specifically focusing on their chemistry, structure, and industrial applications, particularly within the leather, glue, and other related trades. Bennett aims not only to elucidate the characteristics and classification of various proteins but also to highlight their relevance in industrial settings. The opening of the volume presents a preface that discusses the author's objectives and the significance of animal proteins in applied chemistry, particularly as they relate to the leather industry. It emphasizes the prominence of colloid chemistry and its impact on the production and treatment of animal-based materials. The initial chapters introduce protein structures, including their basic elements and complex compositions, and set the stage for a thorough examination of the materials and processes involved in industrial applications, indicating a shift towards more scientific understanding in traditional practices.
William H. (William Henry) Dooley
A Manual of Shoemaking and Leather and Rubber Products
"A Manual of Shoemaking and Leather and Rubber Products" by William H. Dooley is an instructional manual written in the early 20th century. This comprehensive guide serves as a resource for students and professionals entering the leather and footwear industries, detailing the craftsmanship and materials involved in shoemaking. Dooley addresses the technical aspects of shoe manufacturing, from fundamental shoe terms to the treatment of hides and the processes of tanning. At the start of the manual, Dooley emphasizes the necessity of understanding basic terminology used in shoemaking and provides an overview of the structure of shoes, such as the sole, upper, vamp, and various components that contribute to shoe construction. He also outlines the types of hides used in shoemaking and the fundamental processes for converting raw animal hides into leather. This foundational knowledge is crucial for anyone pursuing a career in shoemaking, as it sets the stage for the more intricate details and techniques that will be explored in the subsequent chapters.
K. J. Adcock
Leather: From the Raw Material to the Finished Product
"Leather: From the Raw Material to the Finished Product" by K. J. Adcock is a scientific publication likely written in the early 20th century. This detailed work explores the multifaceted processes involved in leather production, from the collection and treatment of animal hides to the final manufacturing stages. It serves as an educational resource, detailing tanning methods, the evolution of leather manufacture, and the various materials used in the tanning process. The opening of the book outlines the historical evolution of leather manufacture, tracing back to ancient Egyptian methods and their remarkable advancements in the field even without modern machinery. Adcock discusses how leather, derived from the preserved skins of various animals, has undergone numerous transformations over time, transitioning from rudimentary drying techniques to sophisticated chemical processes like chrome tanning. He sets the stage for further exploration into the specific materials involved in tanning, the preparation methods necessary for different types of leather, and the machinery that has revolutionized the industry, emphasizing the balance of art and science in the craft of leather making.
Joseph Turney Wood
The Puering, Bating & Drenching of Skins
"The Puering, Bating & Drenching of Skins" by Joseph Turney Wood is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This book meticulously explores the processes involved in leather tanning, particularly focusing on the techniques of puering and bating, which are essential for transforming raw animal hides into soft and supple leather. It serves both as a practical guide for leather tradesmen and a comprehensive reference for those involved in the scientific study of leather manufacturing. The opening of the work presents the author's motivation and background in leather manufacturing, sharing his experiences that led to the compilation of decades of research and notes. Wood discusses the processes related to puering, a method aimed at removing lime from skins post-liming to prepare them for tanning. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the scientific principles behind these operations, including the role of different chemical and bacterial actions involved in bating. The section also hints at the ongoing development of artificial bates and suggests a shift from traditional practices toward more scientifically informed methods, aimed at improving efficiency and quality in leather production.
E. Wyndham Hulme
Leather for Libraries
"Leather for Libraries" by E. Wyndham Hulme, J. Gordon Parker, A. Seymour-Jones, Cyril Davenport, and F. J. Williamson is a comprehensive guidebook on the subject of bookbinding leather written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the history and reform of leather production specifically for libraries, emphasizing the importance of quality materials in preserving books. It likely addresses the various types of leather, their properties, and the techniques necessary for their proper use in library settings. The content spans several chapters that cover the history of sumach tanning in England, the causes of decay in modern bookbinding leathers, and the characteristics and values of contemporary bookbinding leathers. The authors highlight the detrimental effects of modern tanning methods using acids and other chemicals, which contribute to the rapid deterioration of leather bindings. Additionally, the book provides practical specifications for the fittings of a bindery, alongside recommendations for selecting high-quality leather to extend the life and integrity of library books. Through thorough analysis, it aims to promote a standard of excellence in bookbinding materials and practices.
Recently surfaced classics