Our Hermann Oak® Saddle Tan Tooling Bellies are a great pick for beginner projects or anyone looking to experience Hermann Oak in a beautiful saddle colour. This warm, rich shade resembles the natural patina veg-tan develops over time. Pre-dyed with no finish applied, the leather is still ready for tooling, carving, stamping, and wet forming. Available in a variety of weights, these bellies are a perfect addition to your Hermann Oak collection and ideal for small projects like sheaths, holsters, key chains, coasters, and other small goods.
Trimmed from premium select sides, Hermann Oak Bellies are a by-product of sides being cut down into bends at the tannery. They are dry-cut after tanning from pre-stretched select sides. Since bellies are an off-cut from the stretchiest part of the hide, expect more inconsistencies in shape, texture, and wrinkles.
Hermann Oak veg-tan are suspended in vats and soaked for much longer than most leathers. Hermann Oak takes 6-8 weeks, whereas commercial tanneries typically tan veg-tan hides in 10-14 days. The result is a firmer, denser leather that tools, wet forms, and stamps beautifully, as well has a slightly darker natural tone.
Price: $8.95 per sq.ft.
Weight: 2–10 oz (Available in multiple thicknesses)
Feel: Structured but still flexible
Finish: Natural smooth grain
Temper: Firm
Tannage: 100% vegetable tanned
Origin: USA - Hermann Oak Tannery
Animal: Prime heavy native steer hides
Cut: Belly
Skill Level: Beginner friendly
Use/Applications: Knife sheaths, holsters, key chains, wallets, coasters, watch straps, belt blanks, small leather goods, stamping & tooling practice, inlays, tags, notebook covers
Availability: Standard and reorderable
Size: 5-7 sq.ft. average
