where to buy leather

Here are the most commonly recommended places to buy leather, based on recent forum and video discussions from leathercraft buyers and makers.

Quick Scoop

• Tandy Leather : Often suggested for cheap leather, beginner practice pieces, and physical store pickup when available.

• Rocky Mountain Leather Supply : Frequently praised for a broad selection and strong quality, especially for leatherworkers who want more options.

• Weaver Leather Supply : Commonly recommended for reliable supply, decent variety, and good value on certain hides.

• Buckleguy : Popular for hardware plus leather, though some buyers say it can be a bit pricier.

• Wickett & Craig: A direct-from-tannery option that people like for veg-tan leather and custom cuts.

• District Leather Supply : Mentioned for specialty leathers and strong customer service, especially for Italian leather and live-sale deals.

• Maverick Leather : Often noted for good seconds and discounted Horween hides.

• Springfield Leather : A solid option for beginners, bargains, and mixed-quality inventory, including odd lots and sales.

Best by use

• For beginners: Tandy and Springfield Leather are the most often recommended starting points because they offer cheaper options and easier entry-level buying.

• For premium leather: Wickett & Craig, Rocky Mountain, District Leather, and Buy Leather Online come up often for higher-end hides.

• For bargain hunting: Tandy Outlet, Maverick, Springfield specials, and odd-lot bundles are the usual picks.

• For hardware plus leather in one stop: Buckleguy is mentioned repeatedly.

Practical buying tips

• Buy small cuts or panels first if you are still learning, so mistakes cost less.

• Check whether the supplier sells seconds, odd lots, or bundles , since those are often cheaper.

• If you need a specific tannery or finish, compare shipping and usable square footage, not just price per square foot.

• If you can shop in person, local or nearby stores like Tandy can be useful for inspecting grain, scars, and thickness yourself.

Fast shortlist

• Cheapest to start: Tandy, Tandy Outlet, Springfield Leather.

• Best all-around online picks: Rocky Mountain Leather Supply, Weaver Leather Supply.

• Best for premium/veg tan: Wickett & Craig, District Leather Supply.

• Best for deals and seconds: Maverick Leather, Springfield specials, odd lots.

If you want the most useful next step, the best choice depends on whether you need budget leather, premium veg tan, or upholstery/chrome tan.