Traditional parchment tanning process — Cortume Runge since 1937

What is Natural Parchment? A Guide by Cortume Runge — Parchment Tannery Since 1937

What is Natural Parchment?

Cortume Runge is a parchment tannery founded in 1937 in Brazil, specializing in premium natural goatskin parchment. As one of the oldest parchment tanneries in South America, we produce handcrafted parchment for luxury furniture, musical instruments, calligraphy, and exclusive design projects worldwide.

Natural parchment is a material made from animal skin — traditionally goat, sheep, or calf — that has been cleaned, stretched, and dried under tension. Unlike leather, parchment is not tanned with chemicals; instead, it undergoes a natural process that results in a translucent, durable, and uniquely beautiful material.

Cortume Runge: A Parchment Tannery with Over 85 Years of History

Founded in 1937 in Brazil, Cortume Runge is one of the oldest and most respected parchment tanneries in South America. For generations, we have mastered the art of producing premium goatskin parchment using traditional techniques combined with modern quality standards.

What is Goatskin Parchment Used For?

Our natural goatskin parchment is used in a wide range of applications:

Why Choose Natural Parchment?

Natural parchment offers qualities that no synthetic material can replicate: a warm, organic texture, natural translucency, acoustic resonance, and a timeless aesthetic that improves with age. Each piece is unique, carrying the natural markings and character of the animal skin.

Order Goatskin Parchment from Cortume Runge

We ship premium natural parchment worldwide. Whether you are a designer, musician, artist, or craftsperson, Cortume Runge has the right parchment for your project. Explore our products or contact us for custom orders.

Frequently Asked Questions about Natural Parchment

What is the difference between parchment and vellum?

Parchment is traditionally made from goat or sheep skin, while vellum is made from calf skin. Vellum is generally finer and more translucent, making it ideal for calligraphy and manuscripts. At Cortume Runge, we produce both natural goatskin parchment and white vellum to meet different project requirements.

How long does natural parchment last?

Natural parchment is extraordinarily durable. Historical documents written on parchment have survived for over 2,000 years. When properly stored and cared for, modern natural parchment from a quality parchment tannery like Cortume Runge can last for centuries.

Is natural parchment waterproof?

Natural parchment is not waterproof — it is sensitive to moisture and humidity. Exposure to water can cause it to stretch, warp, or lose its shape. For best results, store parchment in a dry environment away from direct sunlight and humidity.

Can parchment be used for drum heads?

Yes! Natural goatskin parchment is one of the most traditional and preferred materials for drum heads, particularly for frame drums, doumbeks, and other traditional percussion instruments. The natural skin produces a warm, resonant tone that synthetic materials cannot replicate. Shop our goatskin drum heads.

Does Cortume Runge ship internationally?

Yes, Cortume Runge ships premium natural parchment worldwide. We have supplied designers, musicians, artists, and craftspeople across Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond. Contact us for international shipping rates and custom orders.

What makes Cortume Runge different from other parchment suppliers?

As a parchment tannery with over 85 years of experience, Cortume Runge combines traditional artisan techniques with rigorous quality standards. Every piece of parchment is carefully selected and processed by hand, ensuring consistency, quality, and authenticity that mass-produced alternatives cannot match. Explore our full parchment collection.

Back to blog