About
Rusticalf is a supple calf leather produced by Tannerie D'Annonay in France, characterized by its soft texture and full aniline finish. The leather is tanned on half French calf sides using chrome tanning methods, with a typical thickness ranging from 1.4 to 1.6mm.[1][2]
About
Rusticalf is a supple calf leather produced by Tannerie D'Annonay in France, characterized by its soft texture and full aniline finish. The leather is tanned on half French calf sides using chrome tanning methods, with a typical thickness ranging from 1.4 to 1.6mm.[1][2]
Rusticalf is distinguished from other Annonay leathers by its drum-milling process, which makes it softer than the tannery's Vegano leather. The leather features a limited matte finish designed for burnishing, waxing, and patinating, allowing it to develop a natural patina over time.[3]
Production and characteristics
Rusticalf is produced by Tannerie D'Annonay on half French calf sides, combining traditional methods rooted in ancestral know-how with modern techniques.[1][2] The leather undergoes drum milling, a natural softening technique that tumbles the leather to create its characteristic supple texture.[3]
The leather is full aniline with vibrant color and a smooth grain enhanced through the milling process.[3] As full aniline leather with no protective coating, Rusticalf absorbs moisture and oils more readily and is more susceptible to staining than semi-aniline or pigmented leathers.[4] The leather is sold throughout the world to high-end footwear clients.[1][2]
Highland Grain variant
Rusticalf Highland Grain, also known as Scotchgrain, is a variant featuring a distinctive grain pattern. This version is tanned on half French calf sides and polishes to a high shine if required.[1][2] The Highland Grain variant maintains the supple characteristics of standard Rusticalf while offering the embossed grain pattern sought by high-end footwear manufacturers.[1]
Aging and maintenance
Rusticalf develops a natural patina over time as the full aniline finish allows the leather to evolve with wear.[3] The lack of a protective coating requires careful maintenance compared to finished leathers. Regular conditioning with products designed for aniline leather is recommended to maintain suppleness and protect the material while allowing natural patina development.[4]
Applications
Rusticalf is used by high-end footwear manufacturers worldwide for premium boots and shoes.[1][2] Bradshaw and Lloyd selected Tannerie D'Annonay to supply full grain calf leathers, including for their Alnwick and Bamburgh boots.[5] The leather is also suitable for leather goods including wallets and bags, where its soft temper and patina development characteristics are valued.[3]
References
"Annonay Rusticalf Highland Grain Leather by Tannerie D'Annonay". A & A Crack & Sons. Retrieved October 21, 2025.
"Tannerie D'Annonay Leather Suppliers". A & A Crack & Sons. Retrieved October 21, 2025.
"Types of Leather". Chester Mox. Retrieved October 21, 2025.
"Annonay Tannery – Excellence in high-end calf leather". Groupe HCP. Retrieved October 21, 2025.
"Annonay leather used in Bradshaw and Lloyd boots". Bradshaw and Lloyd. Retrieved October 21, 2025.
