Ever since I discovered this amazing leather about eight years ago, it has become one of my favorites. Originally made for boots for companies like LL Bean and known for it's virtual industrictive nature, I began making wrap style journals and bibles from it, and they have been my most popular items over the years. These are massive cowhides, very heavy and hard to cut. The first two pictures below show a cowhide and the cutting tool I use.

The next three pictures show the effects of pulling up, squeezing or bending the leather. The characteristic I like best is it's ability to lighten its color when you "pull up" on it -- thus the name "pull-up" leather-- and then slowly return to its original color. The first three pictures in the second row show its many finishes from very distressed to very smooth and elegant, but the finish I usually have is more on the distressed side (picture 3). It is so difficult to get that I have to buy whatever is available. The rest of the pictures show books on this website.

Pull-up leather gets better with age because of the natural oils in your hands giving it your own distinctive coloring over time. And it's a real conversation piece!

 

Old Leather Books
9 Bradley Rd.
Belmont, MA 02478
617 489-1528
oldleatherbooks@gmail.com