Goatskin leather fabric is very soft and supple. It is softer than cowskin
leather and tougher than sheepskin leather. It is comfortable as well as
durable. The fabric contains a pleasing pebble grain which adds to its
beauty. It colors beautifully and is identified by a distinctive texture of
ridges and furrows in the grain.
Usually there are two types of goatskin leather, straight-grained and
crushed. Straight-grained goatskin leather is produced by rolling a damp
skin, so that all the grains run in the same direction. Crushed goatskin
leather is produced by flattening the ridges with ironing, rolling or
plating.
Morocco is the best-known goatskin leather. It was first produced by the
Moors in the 11th century. Nigerian goatskin leather is also one of the
finest. Presently, India is the leading producer of goatskin leather
followed by China and Pakistan. Other major producers are Africa, Southern
Europe and Central and Southern America.
Characteristics of Goatskin Leather
- It is soft and supple.
- It is lightweight and flexible.
- It is comfortable.
- It is durable.
- It is water-resistant.
- It is tough.
- It is warm.
- It is waterproof.
Uses of Goatskin Leather
- As garments, goatskin leather fabric is widely used in variety of
ways. It is worn for dressy and casual wear. It is used as gloves. For
its durability quality, it is used as working jackets.
- Goatskin leather has been traditionally used as bookbinding. It is
also used as wallets, belts, flasks, etc.
