The Art of PATNAT and Sully: Alran’s Leather Legacy

By a Passionate Leather Artisan

Picture this: you’re holding a wallet, its surface whispering stories of craftsmanship with every touch. The leather is rugged yet refined, with a black patina that shifts under the light like a moonlit desert. This is PATNAT, a vegetable-tanned goat leather from Alran S.A.S., a French tannery that’s been perfecting its craft since 1903. Then, imagine another piece—vibrant, smooth, and bursting with color, like a painter’s palette brought to life. That’s Sully, Alran’s chrome-tanned masterpiece. As a leather enthusiast who’s spent years cutting, stitching, and dreaming in hides, I’m thrilled to dive into the world of these two iconic leathers, sharing their history, magic, and why they make my heart race.

A Tannery Steeped in Time

Nestled in France’s Montagne Noire, Alran S.A.S. is more than a tannery—it’s a living legacy. Founded over a century ago by David Alran, it began with humble sheep and goat skins for shoemakers. By the 1980s, Alran had evolved into a global powerhouse, supplying leather for luxury handbags, watch straps, and artisanal goods. Their secret? A blend of time-honored techniques and cutting-edge innovation. Walking through their story feels like flipping through a leather-bound book, each chapter richer than the last. As someone who geeks out over tanning vats and finishing rollers, I’m in awe of Alran’s ability to balance tradition with modernity.

PATNAT: The Rustic Rebel

Let’s talk PATNAT—oh, where do I start? This vegetable-tanned goat leather, sourced from Nigerian goatskin, is a rebel with a cause. Its black brush-off finish creates a double-tone effect that’s rugged yet sophisticated, like a well-worn leather jacket that’s seen a thousand adventures. The texture is dry to the touch, with a satinized surface that begs to be handled. At 1.2-1.4mm thick, it’s sturdy yet pliable, perfect for wallets, handbags, or watch straps that need to stand out.

Running my hands over PATNAT, I feel its story. Vegetable tanning, a slow, eco-friendly process, gives it a soul that ages gracefully, developing a patina that tells the owner’s tale. It’s not just leather; it’s a canvas for life. I once crafted a PATNAT cardholder for a friend, and watching it transform with use—scratches softening, edges deepening—was like witnessing art in motion. Its limited black color palette is a bold choice, but that’s what makes it special. It’s not trying to please everyone; it’s for those who crave something unique.

Sully: The Colorful Chameleon

Now, meet Sully, PATNAT’s vibrant cousin. Chrome-tanned for softness and suppleness, Sully is the chameleon of Alran’s lineup. Its lightly pebbled texture is smooth as silk, and with up to 70 colors—from neon pinks to metallic golds—it’s a dream for designers who think big. At 1.1-1.2mm, it’s slightly thinner than PATNAT but just as durable, making it a go-to for everything from flashy handbags to delicate watch straps.

Sully’s versatility is what gets me. I’ve used it to create a turquoise clutch that turned heads at a craft fair, its pebbled surface catching the light like a gemstone. Chrome tanning gives Sully a consistency that’s perfect for intricate work—think laser-cut patterns or embossed logos. Unlike PATNAT’s rustic charm, Sully is polished and playful, ready to adapt to any vision. It’s the leather I reach for when a client says, “Make it pop!”

PATNAT vs. Sully: A Craftsperson’s Take

Comparing PATNAT and Sully is like choosing between a vintage motorcycle and a sleek sports car—both are incredible, but they serve different souls. PATNAT’s vegetable-tanned toughness and black patina make it the choice for artisanal, story-driven pieces. Its firmness (rated 4-5/10) holds structure beautifully, ideal for structured wallets or belts. Sully, with its chrome-tanned softness and rainbow of colors, is the darling of versatility. Its medium firmness (5/10) and thinner profile make it perfect for flowing designs or vibrant accessories.

Durability? Both are full-grain, dyed through, and built to last. PATNAT’s patina evolves with time, while Sully’s colors stay true. Cost-wise, they’re neck-and-neck—PATNAT hides start at around $60, Sully at $61—but Sully’s color options might tip the scale for some. For me, PATNAT is my muse for moody, timeless pieces, while Sully fuels my wilder, colorful experiments. Why choose? My workshop needs both.

From Tannery to Treasure

What do these leathers become? Pure luxury. PATNAT shines in rugged-chic handbags and wallets, where its black patina adds depth to minimalist designs. Sully’s vivid hues grace everything from statement clutches to watch straps for high-end brands. Both are staples for artisans and luxury houses alike, turning raw hides into heirlooms.

I’ll never forget stitching a PATNAT watch strap for a client who wanted “something with character.” The leather’s texture felt alive under my needle, and when he wore it, he said it felt like part of him. Sully, on the other hand, stole the show in a metallic gold keychain I made for a boutique—customers couldn’t stop touching it. These leathers don’t just make products; they create experiences.

Why Alran’s Leathers Matter

As a leatherworker, I’m picky. Alran’s PATNAT and Sully aren’t just materials; they’re partners in creation. PATNAT’s rustic soul speaks to my love for tradition, while Sully’s bold colors ignite my creativity. Together, they embody Alran’s ethos: quality, innovation, and passion. Whether you’re a designer, a brand, or a hobbyist like me, these leathers invite you to dream big and craft bold.

So, next time you hold a PATNAT wallet or a Sully handbag, pause. Feel the history, the artistry, the love woven into every grain. These aren’t just leathers—they’re legends, and I’m honored to work with them. Now, excuse me while I sketch my next project. PATNAT or Sully? Why not both?