Round hides into flat leather

摘要

Hides are naturally rounded and contoured to the shape of the living animal (Figure 1). In addition, as part of the living animal, the hide or skin also needs to allow flexibility of movement and protection, but these needs vary according to the area being covered. Some parts need to readily stretch, such as the belly areas - particularly with cows - while other areas such as the butt and backbone are thicker, more dense and less extendable. One of the first leather making tasks is to produce a flat leather, but the leather must also show greater uniformity in terms of stretch and shape retention for use within shoe making operations.