Leather Crafts

Indian leather tanning has a history dating back to 3000 BC. Tanning in the rural areas is done by indigenous methods, making the use of this material easier. No village can exist without a cobbler.

The most popular leather products in India are footwear, leather hand bags, leather wallet. The footwear comes in a variety of traditional embroidery, brocade or textile designs. Bright colors and individual designs are used. The all time favourite, kholapuri chappals of Maharashtra, are soft and comfortable to wear.

A particular type of thickish shoes, called mojadis are made in Rajasthan. They are decorated with silk, metal embroidery and beads. Jaipur has the most fancy and sophisticated footwear. Jodhpur, on the other hand, has good embroidery in potent patterns and bold shades. 'Kopi', a rather unusual and attractive object, is a water bottle made in Bikaner from camel hide. Bikaner and Jaisalmer have decorative saddles for horses and camels.

Handbags in batik style with the cracks, bold curves, and traditional motifs are made in Bengal. The high raised leather seats with geometrical patterns or motifs, called pidis, are immensely popular. Leather accessories of Kashmir are outstanding, as they are very ornamental. The red leather embroidered with gold and silk is unique in Madhya Pradesh. In Hoshiarpur, Punjab, applique work is done with colored leather pieces. Leather with metallic gold or silvery finish is done in Karnataka. Fascinating articles are also made out of crocodile and snakeskins, such as wallets, pouches, handbags, and especially a wide range of belts.

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