Cotacachi Ecuador Leather
Crafts
Ecuador
’s towns and villages are known for their individual crafts and skills. Though there are other areas
in
Ecuador
that specialize in leather works Cotacachi is unique because of its elaboration process.
All artisans buy leather already tanned. This is consistent with the mayor’s
environment friendly policy. A much trained eye is required to purchase tanned leather. The process
involves washing the leather, then softening. Then comes drying which is done naturally and takes
about 48 hours. Then grease and or linseed oil is applied evenly to the leather, this step ensures
durability.
Next step the leather is dyed in one of many, many colors. Next is the
important step of cutting the leather into very thin slivers. Special machinery must be used to
achieve uniformity. Too thick and the leather will be of a rough texture.
After these steps the leather is ready to become a jacket, purse, billfold,
saddle, suitcase, or whatever can be imagined. Then the very last step. To give protection and shine
lacquer is applied to the finished product.
This trade has been passed generation to generation. It began with
grandparents making leather saddles for horses being used to bring in the cattle as a means to
transportation. During World War II belts and purses were made. In the 1960s came leather jackets.
Most of the high quality really nice jackets sell for around $150 U.S. Most of these products retail
for $500 or more overseas and in Europe. At the market haggling is accepted and expected.
We still have condos available both upstairs and downstairs in the Jahua Pacha
project in Cotacachi Ecuador. Click on link below to find out more.
