Where to Tan Leather in OSRS: A Comprehensive Guide

Tanning leather in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is a crucial skill for players interested in crafting and enhancing their gear. This process involves converting raw hides into usable leather, which can be used for various crafting purposes, including armor and items. Understanding where to tan leather and the types of leather available will help you maximize your efficiency and effectiveness in the game. This guide will provide comprehensive insights into the tanning process and the different leather types in OSRS.
In OSRS, there are several types of leather that players can tan, each with different properties and uses. The primary types of leather include:
- Normal Leather: Obtained by tanning cowhide, this is the most basic form of leather. It is used for crafting simple leather items like gloves, boots, and coifs. It requires only a small amount of crafting level to work with, making it ideal for beginners.
- Hard Leather: This type is created by tanning hard leather, which is obtained from cowhide. It offers slightly better defensive bonuses than normal leather and can be used to craft more advanced items. Players need a crafting level of at least 1 to create hard leather items.
- Green Dragonhide: Sourced from green dragons, this type of leather is highly sought after due to its superior defensive properties. Tanning green dragonhide produces green dragon leather, which is used to craft high-level armor like the green dragonhide body and chaps. A crafting level of 63 is required for creating items from this leather.
- Blue, Red, and Black Dragonhide: Similar to green dragonhide, these hides are obtained from their respective dragons. Each type has its unique color and crafting requirements, with higher levels needed for the red and black varieties. Blue dragonhide requires a crafting level of 70, while red and black require levels of 72 and 75, respectively. These leathers are used for crafting high-tier armor sets.
- Leather from Other Creatures: Players can also tan hides from other creatures, such as the various types of snakes and lizards. These hides have different properties and may require varying crafting levels.
Each leather type has its unique advantages, and knowing when to use each can significantly enhance your gameplay. Whether you are crafting low-level gear or aiming for high-tier armor, understanding these leather types is essential for your success in OSRS.
Required Materials for Tanning
Before you begin tanning leather in OSRS, it’s essential to gather the necessary materials. Tanning involves converting hides into leather, which can then be used for crafting armor, items, or other goods. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Hides: The primary material for tanning is hides, which you can obtain by hunting animals. The type of hide determines the type of leather produced. Common hides include:
- Cowhide: Obtained from cows; used for making regular leather.
- Deer Hide: Gathered from deer; used for crafting hard leather.
- Dragonhide: Sourced from dragons; used for making dragon leather, which is highly sought after.
- Tanning Materials: You will also need specific materials to complete the tanning process:
- Coins: To pay for tanning services at certain locations.
- Optional: Tanning Oil: Useful for some advanced tanning processes but not required.
- Tools: While not strictly necessary, having the right tools can make the process smoother:
- Needle and Thread: Handy for crafting items after tanning.
- Knife: Useful for gathering hides and preparing them for tanning.
Gather these materials before you head out to tan leather. This preparation will save you time and streamline the tanning process, allowing you to maximize your crafting potential.
Locations for Tanning Leather
Finding the right location to tan leather in OSRS can significantly impact your efficiency. There are several popular spots where you can get your hides tanned, each with its own unique advantages. Here’s a rundown of the best locations:
Location | Type of Tanning | Cost | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Al Kharid | Regular and Hard Leather | 1 coin per hide | Convenient for low-level players; close to a bank. |
Edgeville | Regular and Hard Leather | 1 coin per hide | Central location; good for high-traffic areas. |
Canifis | Regular and Hard Leather | 1 coin per hide | Ideal for players focused on quests in this area. |
Neitiznot | Dragonhide | 3 coins per hide | Best for mid to high-level players seeking dragon leather. |
Each location offers unique advantages based on your level and proximity to banks. Choose the one that best fits your needs to maximize your tanning efficiency!
How to Tan Leather: Step-by-Step Process
Tanning leather in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is a straightforward process once you get the hang of it. Follow these steps to turn your raw hides into usable leather:
- Gather Your Materials: First, you’ll need raw hides. You can obtain these by killing animals such as cows, wolves, or dragons. Make sure you have enough hides depending on how much leather you want to make.
- Find a Tannery: Next, head to a tannery. Some of the popular locations include:
- *Al Kharid – This is the closest tannery to a bank and a great starting point.
- Taverley – Located near the Taverley dungeon, this tannery is another good option.
- Falador* – The tannery here is near the entrance of the city and is accessible for players.
And that’s it! You’re now ready to use your leather for crafting armor, making items, or even selling it for profit.
Tips for Efficient Tanning
Tanning leather can be a time-consuming process, but with a few helpful tips, you can streamline it and make the most out of your time in OSRS:
- Plan Your Route: Choose a tannery that is close to a bank. This way, you can easily deposit your raw hides and withdraw them quickly to maximize your tanning efficiency.
- Use the Right Hides: Focus on tanning hides that offer the best profit margins. For instance, dragonhides are more valuable than cowhides, so consider prioritizing them if you have the level to tan them.
- Train Crafting Simultaneously: If you’re crafting leather items after tanning, consider training your crafting skill simultaneously. This way, you reduce downtime and increase your overall experience gain.
- Utilize the Grand Exchange: If you find you have excess leather, consider selling it on the Grand Exchange. Keep an eye on the prices to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
- Stay Organized: Keep your inventory organized. Use the first few slots for hides and the rest for other items. This will help you keep track of what you need to tan next.
By following these tips, you’ll find that tanning leather becomes a more efficient and rewarding task in your OSRS adventures!
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
When it comes to tanning leather in Old School RuneScape (OSRS), even seasoned players can stumble. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
- Not Preparing Your Materials: Before you dive into tanning, ensure you have the right animal hides and a sufficient supply of the necessary items, such as a knife and a bucket of water. Forgetting these can lead to wasted time.
- Ignoring Experience Rates: Different tanning methods yield varying experience rates. Make sure you’re using the method that offers the quickest experience for your current skill level.
- Overlooking Crafting Requirements: Some players forget that certain leather types require specific crafting levels. Always check the requirements before attempting to tan.
- Failing to Use Tanning Methods Effectively: Not all tanning methods are equal. Utilizing a tanner in a city may cost more than tanning at the Al Kharid’s tanner. Weigh your options!
- Forgetting About Profit Margins: If you’re looking to make some gold while you tan, always check the market prices for leather and armor. Sometimes, tanning hides may not be profitable.
- Neglecting Quests: Some quests unlock better tanning methods or locations. Don’t overlook the benefits of completing these quests to enhance your tanning experience.
By being aware of these common pitfalls, you’ll have a smoother and more efficient tanning experience in OSRS. Remember, preparation is key!
8. Conclusion: Mastering Leather Tanning in OSRS
Leather tanning in Old School RuneScape can be a rewarding and profitable endeavor if done correctly. By understanding the different types of leather, the best locations for tanning, and the necessary requirements, you can enhance both your crafting skills and your gold reserves.
To recap:
- Choose the right hides for your skill level and goals.
- Familiarize yourself with the locations of tanners.
- Always prepare your materials beforehand.
- Avoid common mistakes that could hinder your experience.
As you become more proficient in tanning leather, you’ll not only improve your crafting skills but also unlock new opportunities for profit and creativity in the game. So, gather your hides, find a tanner, and embark on your tanning journey!
Happy tanning, and may your OSRS adventures be filled with riches and success!