About Us

We’re a focused team of leather technologists, restorers, cobblers, saddlers, upholsterers, and technical writers. We believe leather should last decades when it’s cared for with respect — and that good guidance should be precise, honest, and easy to follow.

What sets us apart is application. Every method, product, and routine is bench‑tested on real hides and finish types — aniline, semi‑aniline, corrected grain, nubuck, suede, pull‑up, and veg‑tan — before we publish. We write for new owners and seasoned collectors, for daily maintenance and complex repairs alike.

• Evidence‑based leather care rooted in tanning chemistry, conservation standards, and manufacturer technical data
• Straightforward, no‑nonsense instructions that respect your time and materials
• Content updated as finish systems, regulations, and best practices evolve
• Access to cross‑disciplinary expertise spanning footwear, bags, apparel, furniture, and automotive upholstery

We value durability over disposability, clarity over hype, and steady progress over quick fixes. Our work favors reversible methods, finish‑safe products, and routines that protect fiber structure and color integrity over the long term.

We prioritize consistency, honesty, and real‑world results. Every guide is built to help you take practical steps that preserve performance and patina. Our editorial process checks for accuracy, safety, and usefulness at each stage.

Transparency is non‑negotiable. We disclose partnerships and compensation, and these relationships never dictate our recommendations. When trends outpace evidence — silicone shine, harsh solvents, miracle wipes — we say so and explain why.

• Practicality: Methods that work on real leather in real conditions — not just in theory
• Transparency: No gimmicks; evidence‑based guidance with clear disclosures
• Community: Skills improve when we share — we learn from readers, technicians, and craftspeople
• Expertise: Content created and reviewed by experienced restorers, technologists, and craft professionals
• Authority: References to respected sources across leather science, conservation, and manufacturer data
• Trustworthiness: We correct errors promptly and update content as standards and products change

Expert guidance, tested methods, and clear standards — that’s our editorial foundation at Tannery Talk.

Our work is built on verified knowledge, not guesswork. Alex Johnson leads editorial direction with extensive hands‑on experience in leather restoration and product testing, supported by a team of specialists across footwear repair, upholstery, and automotive detailing.

Our review team ensures each recommendation aligns with current best practices in conservation and manufacturer specifications. We track developments from industry bodies and technical literature to keep our advice current and responsible.

We consult technical data sheets, safety data sheets, and peer‑reviewed insights on collagen structure, finishes, and dye behavior. When we cite a study or expert view, we add context on scope, limitations, and real‑world application.

• Care protocols reflect core principles: pH‑appropriate cleaning, controlled drying, moisture balance, and finish compatibility
• Product picks consider compliance, VOC content, colorfastness, and long‑term effects on fibers and finishes
• Safety guidance grounded in SDS best practices — ventilation, PPE, solvent handling, and safe disposal
• Ongoing education: supplier trainings, conservation workshops, and routine bench trials on multiple leather types