author Otis Ingrams

The Art of Oak Bark Tanned Leather: A Spotlight on J & FJ Baker

February 27, 20262 min read

At OTZI, we believe the soul of our furniture lies in the materials we choose. To kick off our new series on the heritage craftspeople we partner with, we are looking at J & FJ Baker, the makers of our oak bark tanned leather.

A Site of Antiquity in Colyton, Devon

Based in Colyton, Devon, J & FJ Baker operates from a site that has been a tannery since at least the Roman era. The Baker family has managed the tannery for over 160 years, making them a rare example of a multi-generational British family business dedicated to a singular, ancient craft.

The Last Oak Bark Tannery in Great Britain

J & FJ Baker is now the only remaining oak bark tannery in Great Britain. While modern industrial tanning can take days, this traditional method is a slow process in the truest sense, taking between 12 and 15 months to complete.

The Traditional Oak Bark Process

The unique quality of this leather relies on three primary, natural components:

  • Local Hides: Sourced almost exclusively from local beef cattle to ensure high-quality, heavy-weight skins.
  • Sustainably Harvested Oak Bark: The bark is ground and mixed with water to create the tanning liquor.
  • River Water: The tannery utilizes water from the local River Coly, which is integral to the unique finish of the leather.

Unlike chemical tanning, which can compromise the natural fibres of the hide, the slow immersion in oak bark liquor preserves the leather’s strength. This creates a material that is exceptionally durable, yet supple.

Material Specification: Why We Use 4mm Hides

At the OTZI workshop, we specifically specify J & FJ Baker’s 4mm hides. We chose this specific thickness for several reasons:

  • Structural Integrity: It provides the strength required for our heirloom furniture and larger interior objects.
  • Natural Characteristics: Because the tanning process is so gentle, the leather retains its natural beauty.
  • Unique Patina: Each hide is hand dyed and each piece we craft develops a unique character and patina over time.