Leather that comes to life: the secret art of milling

 

Credit: Onda Verde

 

What makes a leather special? To understand it, just step into the world of Onda Verde, a company specialised in the production of chrome half-calves, from raw to finished product. Smooth and milled leathers of the highest quality, and micro prints that imitate with artisanal precision reptiles, crocodiles and creative patterns.

 

«Milling, or follonatura, has its roots in the tanning tradition, but today it also relies on technology. It’s the step that gives volume, softness and grain to the leather» explains owner Tiziano Bonistalli. «But be careful: everything starts from the tanning process. That’s where the type of leather you want to obtain is determined». The leather is designed from the very beginning according to the final result: smooth, with an accentuated grain, thick or thin. Depending on stylistic and functional choices, a custom tanning recipe is developed and defined.

 

For the milling, the hides are placed inside a large rotating drum, the bottale, then water, softeners, lubricants and specific agents are added according to different formulas. The mechanical action, combined with temperature, rotation cycles and humidity, works on the collagen fibres, creating a unique leather: softer, fuller, and with a grain enhancedin its natural beauty or given a vintage look. The final result varies greatly depending on rotation time, drying and humidity levels.

 

And even though drums are now automated, experience remains essential: no machine can replace the visual and tactile sense of the craftsman. A workshop secret that makes the difference between good leather and extraordinary leather.