The present technology is directed to methods of producing 6,6′-diamino-6,6′-dideoxy-trehalose (“DATH”) or a salt thereof. The methods include optionally protecting one or more hydroxyl groups of D-trehalose and converting the primary hydroxyl groups of D-trehalose to produce DATH or a salt thereof through use of a halogen, azide, and/or protected amine. The present technology is also directed to intermediate products of the methods.