Import Tooling Leather 5/6 oz (2-2.4mm) Full Grain 100% Cowhide PreCut Sizes 6" to 48" - Medium BROWN

Oil Tanned Full Grain Leather - Pre-Cut Pieces

5-6 oz (2-2.4mm) Thickness | Bourbon Brown Color | Available in Multiple Sizes

Premium European Leather for Crafting, Tooling & Leather Projects | Made by Craftsmen, For Craftsmen

Skip the hassle of cutting down full hides. Our pre-cut oil tanned leather comes ready to use in a range of sizes, so you can start your project immediately with premium-quality material.

Why Oil Tanned Leather

Oil tanning infuses the hide with natural oils during the tanning process, creating leather that's supple, naturally water-resistant, and develops beautiful character over time. The process produces leather that's a pleasure to work with while delivering exceptional durability.

• Natural Suppleness: Oils keep the leather flexible without sacrificing strength
• Water Resistant: Built-in protection from moisture
• Pull-Up Character: Lightens at bends and stress points for lived-in look
• Rich Patina: Develops unique character with age and use

What Sets This Leather Apart

• Full Grain Quality: Cut from the top layer of European bull hides where fiber density is highest
• Italian Tanning Process: Traditional oil tanning methods for superior workability
• Consistent Thickness: 5-6 oz (2-2.4mm) throughout each piece
• Craftsmen Grade: No holes or defects; natural grain variations add authentic character
• Pre-Cut Convenience: Multiple size options eliminate waste and guesswork

Available Sizes

Pre-cut pieces available in various configurations from small project pieces to large panels. Select the dimensions that match your project to eliminate waste and start working immediately.

Check size options in the dropdown menu above.

Perfect For

• Belts & Straps
• Wallets & Cardholders
• Journal & Notebook Covers
• Bags & Pouches
• Knife Sheaths & Cases
• Gun Holsters
• Guitar Straps & Covers
• Phone Cases & Sleeves
• Jewelry Boxes
• Shoe & Boot Repairs
• Armor & Cosplay Builds

The ELW Difference

Our oil tanned leather comes from select European bull hides, chosen for their dense fiber structure and consistent quality. Bull hide is naturally thicker and more durable than standard cowhide, making it ideal for projects that demand strength and longevity.

Each hide is tanned using traditional Italian methods that infuse natural oils throughout the leather. This creates material that's supple enough to work comfortably yet sturdy enough to hold its shape in finished projects.

About European Leather Works

European Leather Works is a family-owned American business that supplies leather to crafters, hobbyists, and professional artisans. We don't just sell leather; we use it daily for our own projects. Every piece we offer meets the standards we demand for our own work.

• European Bull Hides: Dense fiber structure, superior durability
• Italian Oil Tanning: Traditional methods for natural suppleness
• Craftsmen-Owned: We use what we sell

Product Specifications

Note: This is natural full grain leather and will display authentic grain variations, minor range marks, and natural characteristics of the hide. Oil tanned leather may show pull-up (color lightening) at bends and folds; this is a desirable characteristic that adds character. The natural color results from the oil tanning process and is not a defect. Thickness may vary ±0.3mm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this leather suitable for beginners? A: Yes. Pre-cut pieces eliminate the intimidation of cutting from full hides, and oil tanned leather is forgiving to work with. Its natural suppleness makes it easier to handle than stiffer leathers.

Q: Can I tool and stamp this leather? A: Yes, oil tanned leather accepts stamps and light tooling. For deep carving and detailed tooling work, vegetable tanned leather is the better choice due to its firmer temper.

Q: Can I dye this leather? A: No. The oils infused during tanning prevent dye from penetrating and bonding properly. If your project requires custom colors, choose vegetable tanned leather instead, which accepts dyes beautifully. Oil tanned leather is meant to be used in its natural color, which deepens and develops rich patina over time.

Q: What is pull-up? A: Pull-up describes how oil tanned leather lightens in color when bent or stretched. This creates a distinctive two-tone effect that shows the leather's natural oils at work. The color evens out with gentle rubbing or conditioning.

Q: Is this leather water resistant? A: Yes. The oil tanning process provides natural water resistance. For heavy exposure, we recommend treating with a leather conditioner or our waterproofing spray.

Q: How does oil tanned compare to vegetable tanned leather? A: Oil tanned leather is more supple, naturally water-resistant, and develops pull-up character, but cannot be dyed. Vegetable tanned leather is firmer, accepts dyes, and is better for detailed tooling and wet molding. Choose based on your project needs.