A Day in My Life: Visiting the Tannery
Hi there! It’s Amelia here, lead designer at eCowhides. Today, I want to take you on a little journey—a day in my life visiting our tannery in the beautiful heart of Cali, Colombia. This place isn’t just where we craft our Natural Cowhide Rugs; it’s where passion, heritage, and artistry come to life. It’s the soul of what we do, and I’m so excited to share it with you.
Early Morning Reflections
It’s 5:30 AM, and the first rays of sunlight peek through the winding roads of Cali. As I make my way to the tannery, a mix of excitement and pride fills me. Today is about reconnecting with the artisans, the craft, and the process that defines everything we stand for at eCowhides. With my Colombian coffee in hand, I take a moment to reflect on our journey, two decades of turning raw Cowhides into pieces of art that tell stories of western heritage and uncompromising quality. It's not just a business; it's a legacy we're building, one hide at a time.
The Warm Welcome at the Tannery
By 7:00 AM, I’m stepping into the tannery, where María, Amalia, and Daniela greet me with their bright smiles. The air smells faintly of leather, a scent I’ve grown to associate with endless possibilities. María adjusts my safety gear while Daniela updates me on the day’s plans. Amalia’s enthusiastic “¡Buenos días!” sets the perfect tone. Our artisans are already hard at work.
Each of them plays a vital role in transforming raw Cowhides into beautiful rugs that will soon find their way into homes across the United States. It’s a team effort, and every step is infused with care and expertise.
The Art of Selection
At 8:00 AM, we dive into one of the most crucial steps: selecting the hides. Not all Cowhides make the cut. We carefully inspect each one for its color, texture, and natural patterns. Every piece must meet our high standards—no exceptions. I love this part of the process because it’s here that we uncover each hide’s unique story. Whether it’s a stunning brindle pattern or a striking tricolor, these natural markings are what make every rug one of a kind.
Transforming Hides Into Art
By 8:30 AM, the real magic begins. Watching the transformation process never gets old. It’s not just about cleaning or tanning the hides; it’s about preserving their natural beauty while enhancing their durability. The process involves:
- Cleaning: Gently removing impurities while keeping the hide’s natural character intact.
- Tanning: Adding depth and richness to the colors.
- Conditioning: Ensuring each piece is soft yet strong.
Every step is a blend of traditional techniques and modern innovation, handled with the precision of a master artisan.
Design Time: The Creative Sanctuary
At 10:00 AM, I step into our design studio—a space where creativity knows no bounds. This is where raw hides become extraordinary rugs that transcend mere home décor. Today, we’re working on our 2025 collections, a fusion of timeless western heritage and modern aesthetics. I spread out a selection of hides, each with its own unique grain and color. As a designer, it’s an absolute joy to create rugs that don’t just look stunning but also connect families to their roots. Our patchwork rugs, for example, are more than just floor coverings—they’re heirlooms in the making.
The Subtle Mastery of Craftsmanship
By 11:30 AM, I find myself drawn to Diego, our lead artisan. He’s been with us for 15 years, and every movement he makes tells a story of mastery and dedication. Watching him tension the hides with such care reminds me why we do what we do—it’s about honoring the craft and creating something truly exceptional.
Quality You Can Trust
At 1:00 PM, we shift to quality control. This is the part where every rug undergoes detailed inspections for texture, color, durability, and more. Nothing leaves our tannery unless it’s perfect. Why? Because when you bring one of our Cowhide Rugs into your home, you’re not just buying a product—you’re bringing home a promise of quality and artistry.
Sustainability and Responsibility
At 2:30 PM, I join our team for a sustainability meeting. Responsible sourcing is a cornerstone of our work. From ethical procurement to minimizing environmental impact, we’re committed to ensuring that every rug we produce is as responsible as it is beautiful.
From Tannery to Home
By 3:45 PM, the finishing touches are underway. It’s amazing to watch each rug come to life—soft brushing, specialized treatments, and a final inspection under precise lighting. Each piece is a testament to the skill and passion of our team.
A Moment of Gratitude
As the day winds down at 5:15 PM, I take a moment to soak it all in. Walking through the tannery, talking to our artisans, and seeing their work firsthand always fills me with gratitude. These aren’t just rugs—they’re pieces of art, filled with love and dedication, ready to find their place in someone’s home.
At eCowhides, our best-selling Cowhide Rugs represent the pinnacle of our craftsmanship:
- Tricolor Cowhide Rug
- Brindle Cowhide Rug
- Black Salt and Pepper Cowhide Rug
- Brown Salt and Pepper Cowhide Rug
- Chocolate and White Cowhide Rug
- Black and White Cowhide Rug
- Brown and White Cowhide Rug
Each design tells a unique story, inviting you to transform your space with authenticity and style.
Welcome to Our World
So, that’s a glimpse into my day at the tannery. It’s not just a job—it’s a passion, a legacy, and a way to connect with you through the beauty of handcrafted Cowhide Rugs. When you choose one of our pieces, you’re choosing more than just a rug. You’re choosing a story, a tradition, and a piece of western heritage to call your own.
Until next time,
xoxo,
Amelia