pelletery

Pelletery is a term that historically referred to the trade and making of articles from dressed animal skins or furs. This included a wide range of products, from garments like coats, gloves, and hats to decorative items and accessories. The craft involved various stages, beginning with the procurement of pelts, their preparation through tanning or other preservation methods, and finally their shaping and stitching into finished goods.

The term is closely associated with the fur trade, which was a significant economic activity in many parts of the world for centuries. Pelletery shops and artisans were common in urban centers, catering to a demand for durable and warm clothing, as well as items signifying wealth and status. The types of skins used varied greatly, depending on regional availability and fashion trends, encompassing animals like beaver, fox, mink, rabbit, and many others.

While the term "pelletery" is less commonly used today, the legacy of this craft continues in the modern furrier industry and in the production of leather goods. Modern techniques have evolved, but the fundamental principles of working with animal hides and furs remain. The historical significance of pelletery lies in its contribution to clothing, trade, and the development of specialized artisanal skills.