Lynn Huggins-Cooper looks at leathercraft through the centuries, from the ancient world to the modern day, and I must say that this book opened my eyes to the ways people have used animal skins for almost everything. The book concludes with some interviews with artisans, and a look at the methods and materials. And should the idea of leatherworking appeal to you, there’s a list of suppliers, training courses and books.

I chose this book to find out about dog poo collectors and ended up spending a few hours learning about an ancient craft that is sadly dying out. These skills should be preserved.

Ripperologist, January 2019 – reviewed by Paul Begg

Georgians take up only a short chapter in this slimmish volume - one of Pen & Sword's excellent Heritage Crafts & Skills series - but a lot of interest is packed into relatively few words.

Jane Austen's Regency World, November/December 2018 - reviewed by by Joceline Bury

An illuminating look into heritage industries that go back to prehistoric times. Starting with an analysis of the industry today and the risks facing it, the book goes into great detail about how leatherworking and tanning has evolved through difference periods in history. . .

... If you want to understand the history behind these ancients crafts, then this book is highly recommended as well as extremely accessible - especially if, like me, you have no prior knowledge of the trades. If any of your ancestors were involved in leatherwork or tanning, then this book will give you a great glimpse into their day-to-day life.

WDYTYA?, September 2018 – reader review: Emma Williams, Bristol