| Context |
What factors does the tannery consider when grading leather? First, size. Often, this is just a sq. ft measurement, but sometimes skins are graded as S - M - L - XL. Secondly, weight (thickness) is measured: although hides are usually split to a uniform thickness, full substance hides may be rated as light, medium, heavy, etc. Thirdly, defects are considered. Often, this is the only factor affecting grading: brands, holes, and scars detract from the grade of the hide in proportion to the size and quantity of defects. Two slightly less noticeable characteristics are sometimes considered by graders: temper, the general "feel" of the leather, and uniformity, how great the variations in color and temper are within a single hide or skin.
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