Horween Black Essex Leather Sides

Horween Black Essex Leather Sides.

• Sizes Available: 3–4 oz and 4–5 oz.
• Tannage: Full Vegetable Tanned.
• Color: Deep Black.
• Finish: Smooth, Waxed Surface with Subtle Shine.
• Grain: Full Grain Cowhide

Bring richness, durability, and timeless American leather quality to your next project with Horween Black Essex Leather Sides—crafted by the legendary Horween Leather Company in Chicago. Essex is Horween’s premier full grain vegetable-tanned leather, offering a luxurious, supple feel paired with the kind of integrity and strength only veg-tan hides can deliver.

What Is Horween Essex?

The Essex line is tanned using the same blend of natural tree barks and oils found in Horween’s world-famous Shell Cordovan, making it one of the most refined and reliable leathers for premium leathercraft. It’s then finished with a gentle wax application that brings out the natural depth of the grain, enhances the pull-up character, and gives it a subtle glow without high gloss.

This Black Essex version offers a bold, saturated tone—deep and rich—with elegant undertones that develop over time. The color permeates fully through the leather, making it ideal for visible edges and fine detail work.

Soft Hand, Strong Structure:

Essex is known for its buttery-soft temper, making it extremely pliable and easy to work with. It drapes beautifully and is well-suited to soft-goods, yet still has enough body to hold form when structured pieces are needed. Edges finish to a rich polish, and the leather takes stitching exceptionally well.

Unlike many chrome-tanned leathers, Essex offers the distinct benefits of vegetable tanning: improved aging, richer patina development, better bonding with glues and adhesives, and compatibility with hot stamping and embossing.

Ideal Uses:

Horween Essex Black is a versatile hide used by high-end leatherworkers for both classic and modern pieces. Recommended applications include:

• Wallets, card sleeves, and passport holders.
• Tote bags and soft-structured purses.
• Notebook covers and journal wraps.
• Watch straps and accessories.
• Small goods with exposed or burnished edges.

Specifications:

• Tannery: Horween Leather Co. – Chicago, USA
• Leather Type: Full Grain Cowhide
• Tannage: 100% Vegetable Tanned (Cordovan Blend)
• Color: Black
• Finish: Lightly waxed for subtle shine and pull-up
• Temper: Soft to medium
• Grain: Natural full grain (unbuffed)
• Thickness Options:
  • 3–4 oz (1.2–1.6 mm) – Great for small goods, lining, flexible accessories
  • 4–5 oz (1.6–2.0 mm) – Perfect for wallets, notebook covers, and soft-structured bags
• Average Side Size: 18–23 sq. ft.

Whether you're crafting artisan wallets, premium bags, or heirloom accessories, Horween Black Essex Leather offers unmatched depth, finish, and quality. Its smooth grain, deep saturation, and signature Horween character make it a true staple for both hobbyists and professionals alike.