J&FJ BAKER
ABOUT US
OUR STORY
J F.J. Baker & Co. supplies the most exclusive shoemakers, saddlers, interior designers and leather workers. British leather quality is world-renowned and our unique tanning methods make our product even more sought after.
J. & F.J. Baker & Co Ltd. is the only oak bark tannery in Britain. Luxury leather like ours cannot be found anywhere else. We make the highest quality, most durable leather for a wide range of leather goods including shoes, equestrian equipment and interiors.
The Baker family bought the tannery over 150 years ago in 1862 and J. & F.J. Baker & Co. Ltd. remains a family business to this day.
The site of J & FJ Baker’s in Colyton, Devon, has existed since Roman times.
The current Managing Director, Mr. Andrew Parr, is the fifth generation to carry on the historic, traditional methods unique to our tannery. Learning the traditional methods exclusive in our leather production takes a lifetime.
The Devonshire site of J. & F.J. Baker has been a tannery since the Roman times. The site has grown and developed and expanded over centuries and with it the oak bark production techniques, perfecting the art of tanning.
Oak bark tannage is a long, gentle process that protects the natural fibres of the hide unlike modern tanning methods. We choose the best local hides and treat them in a sustainable process using natural products. It takes 14 months to produce each piece of leather.
Our expert curriers finish the leather by hand with our own special blend of natural oils and greases that protect and feed the leather whilst simultaneously emphasising the natural grain and colour. The result is leather that is unrivalled hardwearing, strong and with distinctive colours. We believe the quality and luxury of our leather is testimony to the unique tanning methods and the skilled craftsmanship with which every piece of leather is treated.
We have incorporated modern machinery to compliment our traditional methods allowing us to expand and improve the range of products available to the modern market.
J. & F.J. Baker’s team are local craftsmen whose skills and knowledge have been handed down through the generations. Some individuals have worked for the company their entire working life. The team’s dedication and years of experience produce the finest results.
The tan pits where the hides are soaked for 12 months in Oak Bark liquor & moved constantly by a mechanism powered by water wheel.
These vital elements attribute to J. & F.J. Baker’s distinctive leather, meaning in using our leather you are giving your products:
— Quality
— Hardwearing
— Uniquely crafted
— Visually gratifying
— Luxury
By choosing J & FJ Baker's distinctive leather for your products, they will be, high quality, hardwearing, visually gratifying, luxurious and inherit centuries of craftsmanship and tradition.
J. & F.J. Baker & Co is a member of Leather UK.