Experimenting the Viability of Local Vegetable-Tanned Leather for Upholstered Furniture

The main objective of this study was to ascertain whether the Ghanaian vegetable-tanned leather, noted for its versatility in producing conventional artefacts, is viable for the production of upholstered furniture when integrated with lesser-used species as a means of establishing facts about the suitability of this material for sustaining upholstery making. The study employed mixed-method research based on descriptive and studio-based experimental approaches. Observation was used as the main instrument for data collection. The local vegetable-tanned leather was employed with wood and cushion to produce three dining furniture, a pair of footrests and a set of ottomans. Participant observation was used to gain a thorough understanding of the materials used, the process followed and upholstered furniture produced. Results from the study among others indicated that the local vegetable-tanned leather is not known by the majority of furniture producers and users of upholstery products. Imported coverings (textile fabrics, leather and leatherette) are the primary material used for the production of sofa chairs, office chairs, ottomans, sofa beds, and a few other items produced in the country. The findings also demonstrated that Ghanaian vegetable-tanned leather can be a suitable material for making upholstered furniture because of its qualities, including durability, comfort, flexibility, and the attractiveness of its surface after applying the right finishing. It was therefore recommended that the Ministry of Art, Culture, and Tourism raise awareness through art shows, exhibitions, and trade fairs to showcase upholstery products made with indigenous vegetable-tanned leather. This will educate upholsterers and users of upholstery products, identify local vegetable-tanned leather as a viable upholstery material, and develop taste and preference for its use. The study therefore recommends that furniture producers reconsider using Ghanaian vegetable-tanned leather as an equally viable material as a means to sustain upholstery production, as this will increase job opportunities in the leatherwork sector, and reduce the importation of cladding materials.