Caiman Yacare 'Crocodile Flank', 2.5-3oz, Black

Yacare Caiman Leather, Flank Skin, Exotic Leather

Caiman leather belongs to the crocodilian family alongside crocodile and alligator leather. It is known for its distinctive scale pattern, natural durability, and exotic character. Yacare caiman is especially valued for its structured texture, rich color, and natural variation from skin to skin. These Bolivian caiman flanks are cut from the side areas of the skin, creating a scale pattern that differs from traditional belly cuts.

Bolivian caiman flanks feature pronounced scale structure and an organic appearance that works well for inlays, wallets, straps, small accessories, footwear accents, and decorative panels. Each piece will vary in scale size, shape, color, and overall character, making every project unique.

Source: These caiman flanks come from wild Yacare caimans harvested in Bolivia. Bolivia establishes an annual quota limiting the number of caimans that may be legally hunted. The meat is used for human consumption, and the skins are processed for leather.

Cut: Flank, showcasing prominent flank scale patterning with natural variation unique to every piece.

Caiman Leather Specs:

• Type of Leather: Caiman (Crocodilian)
• Scientific Name: Caiman yacare
• Temper (Stiffness): Soft, extremely flexible and pliable with no firmness
• Country of Origin: Bolivia
• Source: Wild harvested
• Tannage: Chrome tanned
• Grade: 1/2 (A/B), approximately 80–90% yield. See below for more information on our exotic leather grading.

Color: Black

Finishes:

• High Gloss
• Matte

Size:

• Width: 10–15 cm (4"–6")
• Length: 75–90 cm (30"–36")

Weight: 2.5–3 oz (approximately 1.0–1.2 mm or 5/128"–3/64")

Uses: Wallets, belts, handbags, footwear, boots, card cases, inlays, accents, and other small leather goods.

How to Work with Exotic Leather

Working with exotic leather follows many of the same techniques as traditional leathercraft, but with a few additional considerations. Exotic leather often benefits from added structure, so we recommend gluing it to bovine leather or another backing material using Intercom Glue or Barge Cement. To add strength and reduce stretching, place a layer of Corazza Reinforcement between the layers. For clean, smooth edges, glue the layers together before cutting. With the right preparation, exotic leather can be cut, stitched, and finished much like traditional leather.

Exotic Leather Grading

All of our Exotic Leathers are grades 1-2, consisting of the highest quality available. Leathers of this grade are generally expected to yield 80-90% of usable surface grain area. Like any full-grain leather hide, there may be natural cuts, marks, wrinkles, or other natural characteristics to the uncorrected-grain of the skin. None of our exotics have brands.

Responsible Sourcing & Trade

All of our Exotic Leathers are sourced and imported following the highest standards. We ensure to meet all the regulations overseen by CITES (The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). CITES is an international body supported in agreement of governments around the world for the responsible and sustainable trade of wild plants and animals to ensure the long-term survival of all species. Visit www.cites.org for more information on CITES standards & guidelines.

Shipping Restrictions - Domestic USA Only

Due to international regulations, we are only able to ship orders of this and other Exotic Leathers within the United States and its territories. This product cannot ship internationally.

Bulk Ordering

We keep a limited quantity on hand at a time of these skins, but reorder time is quick. If you would like to order in bulk, please contact us and we can facilitate an order for you. See chart above for bulk pricing.