🇧🇪 Exploring the Craft of Leather at Altan
Craft enthusiasts and curious minds, join us on a unique journey to the heart of Belgium as we uncover the last of the tanneries, Altan. As the passionate team of ROMAIN, a craft barbershop, we’re determined to delve into the mysterious world of leather. What makes this material so special? And how is it made? Come along with us as we dive into the history and craftsmanship of Johan Lefevre, the proud owner of Altan.
As craftsmen at heart, we understand the connection between different trades. Our barbershop uses leather daily for sharpening knives, but where does this leather come from? Well, that’s what we’re about to discover today as we step into Belgium’s last remaining tannery.
Johan Lefevre, the fourth generation and the last in line, welcomes us with open arms. His tannery, a time capsule from 1890, takes us back to an era when machines were still clunky beasts. Johan is the sole worker here now; the machines are too old and no longer comply with modern safety standards. But this gives us the chance to journey back to the glory days of artisanal craftsmanship.
The factory exudes history: dusty, dirty, and machines that look like they should have retired ages ago. But surprisingly, they still work perfectly. Johan guides us around, enthusiastic and proud of his craft.
We witness magical processes required to make a simple piece of leather. From cleaning raw hides to thinning them with an ancient machine that could swallow your hands if you’re not careful—it’s a delicate dance with danger. But this is where the passion for the craft shines, where precision and experience take center stage.
The chemical bath, resembling a giant wine vat, transforms the hides into suppleness. An art in itself, as timing must be perfect. We see old machines applying dye, like artists working layer by layer. And then, after a journey through time, the leather hides are measured with an antique tool, a giant calculator 150 years old.
This visit not only deepened our appreciation for artisanal art but also gave a new perspective on the daily use of leather in our barbershop. It’s not just a material; it’s the result of dedication, knowledge, and pure passion.
Sadly, Altan will soon become a museum as time takes its toll and there’s no succession for this unique craft. But let’s not mourn, for we’re already looking forward to the next artisanal adventure. Next stop: the still-operating knife and steel factories in Solingen, known as Dovo! Stay with us as we continue to delve into the world of craft and passion. Onward to the next chapter!
If you want more than just a good story and you’re ready to sharpen your craft or your own look, you know where to find us.
From straight razor training and honing on natural stone to classic shaves and serious beard work in the chair, ROMAIN Barbershop & Academy in Ghent is where it actually happens – not just where people talk about it.
Want to book a service?
https://booking.optios.net/6064/select-location
Want to follow the journey?
ROMAIN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/romain_ghent
Stijn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desutter_stijn
Stijn on YouTube (more adventures, more razors, more stories): https://www.youtube.com/@desutter_stijn
For Academy info, courses or questions, send an email to info@romaighent.be – and we’ll take it from there.
