Uruguay Leather Processing: From Drying to Precision Cutting

The process of processing raw leather into ready-to-use material requires high precision, starting with the maximum stretching stage. This video shows how the animal's skin is laid out using elastic straps on the wooden frame to ensure the surface remains flat and does not wrinkling during the drying process. This stretch is very crucial because it determines the consistency of the thickness and elasticity of the skin fibers before entering the next mechanical or manual stage. After the skin reaches the ideal level of dryness, the next stage is removal from the frame and cleaning the remains of the rope. Craftsmen use a special knife with a certain curve to cut the binding knots without damaging the edges of the skin. Speed and accuracy of the hand are very necessary here so that the skin fibers do not come off or accidentally tear, keeping the integrity of the material intact from end to end. Entering the formation stage, it is seen the use of a sharp knife to cut a sheet of leather that is already stiff following the pattern line that has been determined. This cutting technique not only relies on the sharpness of the blade, but also the consistent pressure to produce a smooth and straight edge. Each piece is done in a measured manner to minimize material waste, considering the economic value of high-quality leather is highly dependent on the efficiency of its use. The final stage shown is the manual punching process using punch and hammer tools. Craftsmen place hole drill bits at precision points that are usually used for seam lines or accessory installation. The hammer blow must have the right force so that the hole penetrates perfectly without breaking the surrounding skin structure. All these processes are carried out on a hardwood base to absorb impact and maintain the sharpness of the punching tool.