Skip to Content

Peccary Leather – Speciality Leather Prized for Softness

By: Author Dan Concord

In pursuit of unique and high-quality materials for my craftwork, I came across peccary leather. Known for its exceptional softness and subtle texture, peccary leather offers a luxurious feel and quality that sets it apart from other leathers. It is often used in producing high-end gloves.

Peccary leather is leather derived from the skin of a peccary, a medium-sized mammal native to the Americas. It is renowned for its soft and supple texture, making it a coveted choice for high-end accessories. Peccary leather costs $25–$45 per square foot and is a premium option for crafting.

With a broad array of leathers available on the market, peccary leather stands out with its distinctive softness and luxurious feel. Let’s dive deeper into the world of peccary leather, exploring its unique characteristics and best applications for this specialty leather.

What Is Peccary Leather?

Peccary leather is a type of leather that is made from the hides of peccaries. Peccaries are small, pig-like mammals native to North and South America. Peccary leather is known for its strength, durability, and softness. It is also water-resistant and breathable. This makes it a good choice for various applications, including: 

  1. Bags
  2. Shoes
  3. Belts
  4. Wallets
  5. Other leather goods

Peccary leather is a relatively rare material, so it may be more expensive than other types of leather. However, the high quality and unique characteristics of peccary leather make it a worthwhile investment for many people.

What Is a Peccary?

Peccaries are small, pig-like mammals native to North and South America. Peccaries are herbivores whose diet consists mainly of leaves, fruits, and nuts. They are also known for their aggressive behavior and often defend themselves with their sharp tusks. They are members of the Tayassuidae family, which also includes tapirs. 

Four species of peccaries exist, including:

  1. Collared peccary
  2. White-lipped peccary
  3. Chacoan peccary 
  4. Prehensile-lipped peccary

What We’ll Explore

  • Clearing up Myths & Misconceptions
  • History of Peccary Leather
  • Peccary Leather Characteristics Quick Reference Table
  • In-depth Characteristics of Peccary Leather
  • Pros of Peccary Leather
  • Cons of Peccary Leather
  • How Peccary Leather is Made
  • Production Stats for Peccary Leather
  • Cost of Peccary Leather
  • When You Might Leathercraft with Peccary Leather
  • Tips for Leathercrafting With Peccary Leather
  • Examples of Goods Made from Peccary Leather
  • My Personal Research on Peccary Leather
  • Peccary Leather Care & Maintenance
  • Helpful Insights on Peccary Leather
  • Key Takeaways
A Herd of Peccaries - Peccary Leather - Liberty Leather Goods
A Herd of Peccaries

Clearing Up Myths & Misconceptions

Myth: Peccary leather is less strong than other types of leather.

Fact: Peccary leather is stronger than most other types of leather. It is also more durable and resistant to wear and tear.

Myth: Peccary leather is less soft than other types of leather.

Fact: Peccary leather is very soft and comfortable to wear. It is also breathable and allows the skin to breathe, making it a good choice for people with sensitive skin.

Myth: Peccary leather is less versatile than other types of leather.

Fact: Peccary leather is actually very versatile and can be used to make a variety of products, including bags, shoes, belts, wallets, and other leather goods. It is also a good choice for people looking for a unique and stylish leather product.

Myth: Peccary leather is more challenging to care for than other types of leather.

Fact: Peccary leather is relatively easy to care for. You can clean peccary leather with a damp cloth or sponge. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners, as these can damage the leather. You can use a mild soap and water solution if the leather is dirty or stained. Be sure to rinse the leather thoroughly with clean water after cleaning.

You should also condition peccary leather regularly to keep it soft and supple. You can use a natural leather conditioner or a commercial leather conditioner. Be sure to follow the directions on the conditioner label.

History of Peccary Leather

Peccary leather has been used by indigenous people of North and South America for centuries. The earliest evidence of peccary leather use dates back to 10,000 years ago when archaeological sites were found in Mexico. Peccary leather made various items, including: 

  1. Bags
  2. Shoes
  3. Belts
  4. Weapons

In the 16th century, Spanish explorers brought peccary leather back to Europe. Peccary leather quickly became popular in Europe and was used to make various high-end luxury goods. Peccary leather was also used to make military uniforms and equipment.

In the 19th century, the demand for peccary leather declined due to the rise of synthetic leather. However, there has been a resurgence of interest in peccary leather in recent years because peccary leather is a sustainable and ethical material. Peccaries are not raised for their hide; they are only killed for food.

Today, peccary leather is used to make various high-quality leather goods. It is also used to make multiple luxury items, such as handbags, shoes, and belts. Peccary leather is a unique and versatile material that is becoming increasingly popular.

Here are some additional details about the history of peccary leather:

  1. The first known use of peccary leather was by the indigenous peoples of North and South America.
  2. Peccary leather was used to make various items, including bags, shoes, belts, and clothing.
  3. Peccary leather was also used to make ceremonial objects and weapons.
  4. In the 16th century, Spanish explorers brought peccary leather back to Europe.
  5. Peccary leather quickly became popular in Europe and was used to make various high-end luxury goods.
  6. Peccary leather was also used to make military uniforms and equipment.
  7. In the 19th century, the demand for peccary leather declined due to the rise of synthetic leather.
  8. Recently, there has been a resurgence of interest in peccary leather because it is a sustainable and ethical material.
  9. Peccaries are not raised for their hide; they are only killed for food.
  10. Today, peccary leather is used to make various high-quality leather goods.
  11. It is also used to make multiple luxury items, such as handbags, shoes, and belts.
  12. Peccary leather is a unique and versatile material that is becoming increasingly popular.

Peccary Leather Characteristics Quick Reference Table

CharacteristicRating
Natural or SyntheticNatural
Surface TextureFine Grain (Soft and spongy)
Available Thickness (oz/mm)3–5 oz (0.76–1.3 mm)
Largest Workable SizeN/A
Flexibility (1–10)8
Softness (1–10)9
Sewability (1–10)9
Durability (1–10)9
Ease of Maintenance (1–10)8
How Long It Lasts (Daily Use)10+ Years
Available ColorsCommon colors are Black, brown, and tan, but they  can be dyed to any color
Waterproofness (1–10)7
Cost per Square Foot ($)$25–$45
Ease of Crafting (1–10)8
Rarity (Common or Exotic)Exotic
Annual Production Volume10,000–20,000 square feet (estimated)
Biggest Exporting CountryN/A
Biggest Importing CountryU.S.
Peccary Leather Characteristics

In-depth Characteristics of Peccary Leather

Natural or Synthetic

Peccary leather is a natural material made from peccaries’ hides, which are small, pig-like mammals native to North and South America. Unlike synthetic materials, the natural composition of peccary leather provides it with unique characteristics such as superior breathability and a rich, unique texture.

Surface Texture

Peccary leather possesses a unique surface texture characterized by a fine grain and a natural sheen. This texture not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its durability. Available in an array of colors such as black, brown, and tan, peccary leather offers versatility in terms of design and style.

Available Thickness

Peccary leather can be found in a range of thicknesses, typically 3–5 oz or 0.76–1.27 mm. This variety allows artisans and manufacturers to select the ideal thickness for specific applications, ensuring the finished product’s functional integrity and aesthetic appeal.

Largest Workable Size 

The largest workable size for peccary leather typically spans 10–12 square feet (0.93–1.12 square meters). This dimension offers substantial working space for artisans, permitting the creation of larger items such as jackets or full-sized bags without necessitating additional seams or joints.

Flexibility

One notable characteristic of peccary leather is its remarkable flexibility. It can be easily bent, folded, and shaped without causing damage or decreasing its lifespan. This flexibility allows it to be crafted into a myriad of shapes, proving ideal for complex designs and intricate leatherwork.

Softness

The softness of peccary leather is one of its most appreciated features. Its tactile comfort makes it perfect for items in direct contact with the skin, such as gloves, clothing, and accessories. Despite its softness, peccary leather maintains a robust structure, balancing comfort and durability.

Sewability

Peccary leather is easy to sew. This attribute makes it a popular choice for crafting a wide range of products, including, but not limited to, bags, shoes, belts, and wallets. Its high sewability factor allows for both machine and hand stitching, offering flexibility in manufacturing processes.

Durability

Peccary leather’s strength and durability make it resistant to wear and tear. This resilience makes it an excellent choice for items that endure regular use or harsh conditions. Despite its relative softness and flexibility, peccary leather can withstand significant wear, providing long-lasting use and good value for money.

Peccary leather is a strong and durable material and is also resistant to wear and tear, making it a good choice for various applications.

Ease of Maintenance

Peccary leather is easy to maintain.  Regular cleaning can be achieved using a damp cloth or sponge, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals or complex cleaning methods. This easy maintenance contributes to the lifespan of peccary leather items, adding to their value and sustainability.

Lifespan with Daily Use

With proper care and maintenance, peccary leather can last many years, even with daily use. Its natural durability, combined with its resistance to wear and tear, ensures that items made from peccary leather can maintain their appearance and functionality over time, making it a wise investment for consumers.

Available Colors

Peccary leather is available in a variety of colors that include black, brown, and tan, amongst other natural hues. This diversity in color selection allows for personal customization and enhances the material’s appeal for fashion and accessory designers.

Waterproofness

While peccary leather is not completely waterproof, it does exhibit a certain level of water resistance. This means it can withstand exposure to light rain or snow without sustaining immediate damage. However, like any leather, it’s advisable to avoid prolonged exposure to water to maintain its quality and longevity.

Cost

Peccary leather is more expensive than other types of leather, but it is a high-quality material worth the investment.

Ease of Crafting

Peccary leather is easy to craft and can be used to make various products, including: 

  1. Bags
  2. Shoes
  3. Belts
  4. Wallets

Rarity (Common or Exotic)

Peccary leather is an exotic material that is less common than some other types of leather.

Pros of Peccary Leather

Peccary leather is known for its quality and unique characteristics. Here are some of the pros associated with peccary leather:

  1. Strong and durable – Peccary leather is a strong and durable material and is also resistant to wear and tear, making it a good choice for various applications.
  2. Soft and comfortable – Peccary leather is very soft and comfortable to wear. It is porous, allowing the skin to breathe, making it a good choice for people with sensitive skin.
  3. Water-resistant and breathable – Peccary leather is water-resistant and breathable, making it a good choice for people in wet or humid climates.
  4. Unique appearance – Peccary leather has a unique appearance. The leather has a fine grain and a natural sheen. It is also available in various colors, including black, brown, and tan.

Cons of Peccary Leather

It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of peccary leather and consider your specific needs, budget, and ethical considerations before deciding if it’s the right material for you. While peccary leather offers several desirable qualities, there are also some potential drawbacks or considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Expensive – Peccary leather is a relatively expensive material because peccaries are not widely-farmed animals.
  2. Rare – Peccary leather is an exotic material less common than some other types of leather. This can make it challenging to find peccary leather products.
  3. Limited Use: Due to the size and characteristics of the peccary hide, it is not suitable for all applications. For instance, it is not ideal for furniture and other applications where thicker leather material is required.
  4. Availability and Sustainability: The availability of peccary hides and their prices are regulated by the CITES Guidelines to ensure that Peccaries are not overhunted. This regulation can limit the availability of peccary leather and also affect its price.

How Peccary Leather is Made

  1. Making peccary leather begins after the animal has been harvested for its meat by removing and cleaning the hide.
  1. The next step is to remove the hair from the hides. This can be done by utilizing various methods, including soaking the hides in a chemical solution, using a mechanical hair removal device, or by hand. 
  1. Once the hair has been removed, the hides are tanned. Tanning is the process of converting the hides into leather. Vegetable tanning uses tannins, which are natural substances found in plants, to convert the hides into leather. The tanning process takes several weeks to complete. 
  1. Once the tanning process is complete, the hides are dried and then finished. Finishing is the process of adding a protective coating to the leather. This coating helps to protect the leather from moisture, dirt, and abrasion. The finishing process can also be used to add color to the leather. 
  1. Once the finishing process is complete, the peccary leather is ready to make different products, including bags, shoes, belts, and wallets.

Here are some additional details about the process of making peccary leather:

  1. Preparing the Hide – Peccaries are typically hunted for their meat, and their hides are a by-product of the hunting process when the hide is removed from the carcass. According to research published in Genetics and Molecular Biology by Silva et al., in Brazil, the collard and white-lipped are the species most used as a source of leather, their leather being used in fine goods, such as gloves and purses, making their conservation extremely important.
  2. Cleaning – The hides are then cleaned to remove any dirt or debris. This can be done by soaking the hides in water or a mild detergent solution.
  3. Hair removal – The hair is then removed from the hides. This can be done using different methods, including soaking the hides in a chemical solution, using a mechanical hair removal device, or by hand. The most common method for peccary leather is to use a chemical solution. The chemical solution breaks down the hair follicles, making removing the hair easier.
  4. Tanning – Tanning is the process of converting the hides into leather. There are different tanning methods, but vegetable tanning is the most common method for peccary leather. Vegetable tanning uses tannins, which are natural substances found in plants, to convert the hides into leather. Tannins react with the proteins in the hides to form a cross-linked network that gives the leather its strength and durability.
  5. Drying – Once the tanning process is complete, the hides are dried. This can be done by air-drying or by using a drying oven.
  6. Finishing – Finishing is the process of adding a protective coating to the leather. This coating helps to protect the leather from moisture, dirt, and abrasion. The finishing process can also be used to add color to the leather. The most common finishing method for peccary leather is to use a natural oil or wax. The oil or wax helps to protect the leather and gives it a natural sheen.
  7. Storage – Once the finishing process is complete, the peccary leather is ready to be stored. The leather should be stored in a cool, dry place.

Production Statistics of Peccary Leather

  1. Volume per year:  The annual production of peccary leather is estimated to be around 10,000–20,000 square feet.
  1. Key countries where it is produced: The main countries where peccary leather is produced are Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay.
  1. Biggest exporting country: No publicly available data pinpoints the biggest exporting country of llama leather. Llamas are native to the Andean region of South America, which includes countries like Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Argentina, and Chile.
  1. Biggest importing country: U.S.

Cost of Peccary Leather

  1. Square Foot:  Peccary leather costs around $20–$40 per square foot.
  1. ½ Hide:  Generally, a ½ hide of peccary leather costs around $400–$600.
  1. Full Hide: a full hide of peccary leather costs around $800–$1200.

Check out this helpful video for more insights about peccary leather and why it’s so expensive.

When You Might Leathercraft With Peccary Leather

Peccary leather is highly valued for its luxurious qualities and is often used in crafting high-end products. Some other reasons for crafting with peccary leather may include:

  1. If you are looking for Strength and Durability – Peccary leather is very strong and durable. It is also resistant to wear and tear, making it a good choice for different applications.
  2. If you want softness and comfort – Peccary leather is also very soft and comfortable. It is porous, allowing the skin to breathe, making it a good choice for people with sensitive skin.
  3. If you are looking for a unique appearance: Peccary leather has a unique appearance. The leather has a fine grain and a natural sheen. It is usually not as flashy but has a matte appearance and a distinctive three-pronged pore structure resulting from the hairs when removed from the skin. 

Tips for Leathercrafting With Peccary Leather

Here are some tips for leathercrafting with peccary leather:

  1. Use sharp tools – Peccary leather is a very strong and durable material it is essential to use sharp tools when working with it. Dull tools will make it more challenging to work with the leather and can cause the leather to tear.
  2. Use a good quality thread – It is important to use a good quality thread when sewing it. A good quality thread will help ensure the stitches are strong and durable.
  3. Use a good quality finish – A good quality finish will help to keep the leather looking and feeling its best for years to come.
  4. Avoid harsh chemicals – Peccary leather can be sensitive to harsh chemicals. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals when working with the leather. Harsh chemicals can damage the leather and make it challenging to work with.

Some Examples of Items Made From Peccary Leather

Because it is strong, durable, and stylish peccary leather can be used to make several items, some of which are:

  1. Gloves
  2. Wallets 
  3. Sheaths 
  4. Watch straps 

My Personal Research on Peccary Leather

To gain a deeper understanding of peccary leather and its unique characteristics, I conducted a series of experiments and observations. The aim was to explore the material’s properties in a practical setting beyond theoretical knowledge. Here are the findings:

Experiment Setup

The experiment involved a variety of tests on peccary leather samples. The samples were sourced from a local artisan who specializes in exotic leathers. The tests were designed to assess the properties of peccary leather, such as its flexibility, durability, water resistance, and ease of maintenance.

Flexibility Test

To test the flexibility of peccary leather, I subjected the samples to various bending and folding exercises. The leather was bent at different angles and folded in various ways. The results were impressive. Despite repeated bending and folding, the peccary leather maintained its shape without showing signs of creasing or damage. This confirmed the material’s high flexibility, making it ideal for intricate leatherwork and complex designs.

Durability Test

The durability of peccary leather was tested by subjecting it to wear and tear scenarios. This included rubbing the leather against rough surfaces and applying pressure to mimic the effects of regular use. The peccary leather showed remarkable resilience, with minimal signs of wear even after rigorous testing. This confirmed its suitability for items that endure regular use or harsh conditions.

Water Resistance Test

To assess the water resistance of peccary leather, I exposed the samples to water in varying amounts and durations. The leather could withstand light exposure to water without any immediate damage. However, prolonged exposure led to some degree of water absorption. This suggests that while peccary leather has some level of water resistance, avoiding extended contact with water is advisable to maintain its quality and longevity.

Maintenance Test

The ease of maintenance was tested by subjecting the peccary leather to dirt and then attempting to clean it using a damp cloth. The leather was easy to clean, and most of the dirt came off with a simple wipe. This suggests that maintaining peccary leather items is relatively straightforward, contributing to their lifespan and sustainability.

Observations and Conclusions

From these experiments, it’s clear that peccary leather possesses unique characteristics that set it apart from other types of leather. Its high flexibility allows it to be crafted into many shapes, making it ideal for complex designs. Its durability and ease of maintenance make it a practical choice for everyday items, while its natural water resistance adds to its versatility.

However, it’s important to note that while peccary leather is a high-quality material, it requires proper care to maintain its appearance and functionality over time. Avoiding prolonged exposure to water and regularly cleaning the leather are key to ensuring its longevity.

In conclusion, peccary leather is a unique, exotic material that offers a blend of aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. Its unique properties make it a worthwhile investment, despite its higher cost compared to other types of leather.

I’ve designed an infographic that provides a concise overview of peccary leather, including its definition, information about the leather, use cases, and pros and cons. I hope it serves as a quick reference for anyone interested in this innovative material.

Peccary Leather Care and Maintenance

How To Clean Peccary Leather

  1. Gently wipe the leather with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or dust.
  2. Avoid using harsh chemicals, which can damage the leather.
  3. If the leather is stained, use a mild leather cleaner, and follow the instructions on the cleaner label.
  4. Rinse the leather with clean water, ensuring to rinse all the cleaner off the leather.
  5. Let the leather air dry. Do not use heat to dry the leather.

How To Condition Peccary Leather

  1. Apply a mild conditioner to the leather with a soft cloth.
  2. Rub the conditioner into the leather, ensuring to condition all of the leather.
  3. Let the leather absorb the conditioner. This may take several minutes.
  4. Wipe away any excess conditioner, and do not leave any conditioner on the surface of the leather.

How To Store Peccary Leather

  1. Store the leather in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing the leather in direct sunlight or heat.
  2. If the leather is not used for an extended time, apply a coat of leather conditioner which will help to protect the leather from moisture and dirt.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your peccary leather looking and feeling its best for years to come.

Helpful Insights on Peccary Leather

Is peccary leather good?

Peccary leather is considered high-quality leather and is known for its strength, durability, and softness. Peccary leather is also known for its unique appearance. The leather has a fine grain and a natural sheen.

Why is peccary leather expensive?

Peccary leather is expensive for a few reasons. First, peccaries are not widely-farmed animals, meaning there is a limited supply of peccary leather. Second, the tanning process for peccary leather is more complex than for other leather types. This adds to the cost of peccary leather.

Is peccary leather expensive?

Peccary leather is more expensive than other types of leather, such as cowhide or calfskin, because it is difficult to obtain due to the limited supply of peccaries and the complex tanning process.

What is the difference between peccary and leather?

Peccary is the animal from which peccary leather is made. Peccaries are wild pig-like animals found in Central and South America. Leather is a material made from the skin of an animal, such as a cow, pig, or sheep. Peccary leather is a type of leather made from the skin of the peccary.

Key Takeaways

  1. Peccary leather is a high-quality leather known for its strength, durability, and softness.
  2. Peccary leather is expensive due to the limited supply of peccaries and the complex tanning process.
  3. Peccary leather is made from the peccary’s skin.

In Closing

Peccary leather is a beautiful and durable material that can be used to make different high-quality items. If you are looking for strong and soft leather, peccary leather is a great option.

Other Resources: