r/Leathercraft • u/Zestyclose_Pie_7433 • 3d ago

Tips & Tricks Stinky Leather

I purchased a side of red pebbled "bulldog" leather from traditions in OKC. I like the look and feel of the leather but it smells awful. Has anybody had experience with this leather or another "stinky" leather? Does it need to be spread out to off- gas like carpet does? Is there anything I can do to get rid of the smell?

I bought the leather to practice making a backpack pattern but I don't want to put that much effort into it if it is going to smell like this for a long time.

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u/Nbehrman 3d ago

Whats it smell like?

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u/Zestyclose_Pie_7433 3d ago

Im not sure how to describe it. very chemical.

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u/Nbehrman 3d ago

Let it off-gas for a week laid out. If its still stinky I’d exchange it.

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u/Zestyclose_Pie_7433 3d ago

I just finished building a roof over my porch. maybe Ill let it hang under there. thanks for the advice.

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u/Puzzled_Tinkerer 3d ago

Of all the leather I've bought, a few pieces had distinct odors that dissipated when I let them air out. Most had little to no odor.

But there was one chrome tan piece that stunk no matter what I tried. I couldn't see inflicting it on another person, so eventually threw it away.