Artisan's Choice Natural Veg Tan Cowhide vs Natural Veg Tan Cowhide Side

Both are natural vegetable-tanned cowhide for tooling, carving and dyeing. The Artisan's Choice is sold by the pound as sides or project pieces and is described as stiff and smooth, which suits small carved goods like wallets, straps and cases. The second side comes in 2–3 oz or 4–5 oz, is sold from 10 sq ft up to a whole side, and its maker warns of scars, branding and the odd edge hole. Pick the Artisan's Choice for clean small pieces; pick the side for larger projects and heavier weights.

• Choose the Artisan's Choice if you want small, firm, smooth pieces for tooling, stamping and dyeing wallets, straps and cases.
• Choose the Natural Veg Tan Cowhide Side if you need a large panel or a heavier 4–5 oz hide for bags, belts, sheaths or saddles and can work around natural marks.