Hey Krisleather,
You could start with the Lineapelle fair in September, where you can view all the Italian (and further afield) tanneries and their speciality articles and new colours of the season. As there are so many of them, this could be a good place to start and to make contacts at the tanneries. You will likely be made very welcome if you already have a contact name when you book your visit at the tannery. Good luck!