Taverner

Good point. I think raw lumber for woodworking is a similar situation, although maybe not quite the same in regards to difficulty finding information online.

Thanks for the replies! I spoke with W&C this morning and they're going to send me a swatch kit. That's something I couldn't get from some of the other suppliers I had found with a google search. Not sure why I wasn't finding Springfield or W&C on my own. They also pointed out I can have them split the leather, which I knew was a process, but didn't realize suppliers would be willing to do for me and save me a lot of time and expense. I'll check with Sprinfield if W&C doesn't work out but it sounds like they will.

I am trying to laser cut some leather backs for electronics, somewhat similar to this product - http://www.grovemade.com/product/iphone-leather-back/#plain-i4lb I'd like the thickness to be about 1-2 mm (0.040-0.060"). I think this means 2/3 oz leather. The real question is what type of leather to use. Someone at Tandy told me that I do not want to use chrome tanned because it will potentially damage the electronics (corrosive). Keep in mind that there will be a layer of adhesive between the leather and the electronics, although any damaging chemical might still leech through. So, best I can gather I want to use veggie tanned. Beyond this, I have no clue what type of hide to use for a particular smooth/grainy surface or other characteristics. There seems to be so many different types and I haven't been able to find a succinct and to the point description of the various sorts. Any guess as to what type of leather is used on the Grove leather back? As far as sourcing the leather, I know to look through the sources forum, but I'm curious at what stages I can expect to source the leather. Even if I will pay a premium, should I be able to find veggie tanned 2/3 oz leather that has been dyed and finished already? Will the dyed and finished hides have a more refined back side compared to the raw stuff (I need to have a somewhat smooth surface for the adhesive sheet to stick on well/flat)? Will it be a better dye/finish job that I am likely to get on my own as a novice? I don't mind learning how to do this sort of stuff myself, although in this particular situation I'd like to avoid the time and expense of testing out several new finishes like I would for woodworking. Glad to join the forum, I am sure I will have many other questions as I try to start working with leather. Thanks for any guidance anyone can provide me with.