Cowhide is a useful by-product of the beef industry and helps to make sure there is as little wastage as possible. Cowhide can be used for many products including shoes, clothing, bags and rugs. The process for manufacturing cowhide rugs is fairly straightforward and techniques have changed very little over the years.
Preparing the Hide
The hides are all delivered in their pre-curing raw state and sorted into sizes and colours. Top quality whole pelts with good colour patterns are typically used for whole hide rugs. Pelts that are slightly damaged will be cut up for patchwork rugs or smaller cowhide products (bags, hats, lampshades etc).The pelts used for cowhide rugs have both hair and hide and so need to be cured slightly different than plain hide (leather) in order to retain the softness and natural look of the product. The curing process is essential as this preserves the hide and helps to prevent bacteria or fungus from forming. This makes the cowhide a safe and long lasting product to use in the home.
Dying Process
Cowhide rugs are available in natural patched, brindled and spotted patterns (depending on the breed). These vary from black and brown through to light beige, cream and white colours. Cowhide also responds very to well to dyeing and so rugs are available in a wide range of different colours. Dyeing is usually reserved for the poorer quality hides as those with naturally attractive patterns, shapes and colours are prized for classic cowhide rugs and other products.
Uses in the Home
Each cowhide is unique and this can create a very original and natural decorative feature for your room. As well as cowhide rugs of all shapes and sizes you can also get cowhide furniture (chairs, sofas, headboards etc), wall hangings, lampshades and more. Cowhide is very durable and will provide a long lasting, soft covering even for areas that see heavy foot traffic.
You can check out some more really useful information about rugs by visiting one of niche rug resource sites
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