They don't make them like they used to, is becoming more prominent then ever. However we do!
Leather Wallets
Are all leather wallets the same?
No. To begin with lets talk about different leathers used. Then about the making process. Two factors that greatly impact on the quality of a product.
What is pleather?
Many of the 'leathers' used in modern wallets are synthetic and termed Pleather. Pleather simply means "plastic leather", made by bonding plastic to some kind of fabric backing.
Other terms for fake leathers are PU leather (polyurethane leather), faux leather, vegan leather, leatherette and imitation leather.
These are cheaper substitutes for leather, and they have been widely adopted in the fashion and manufacturing industry.
As these are basically plastic they are much lighter then real leather. Additionally Pleather is slow to decompose in landfill and harsh on the environment to produce.
Pleather does not breathe, stretch or wear like natural leather. Nor does it have the ability to patina over time. The biggest down fall off pleather is susceptible to tears and punctures. With time it also delaminates, cracks and breaks.
What is leather?
Leather is a natural fiber that is obtained from animals skins and hides. Processing takes place via tanning to prevent decay of the hide. In the process of tanning there are variations that occur. Two of the most common are:
Chrome tanning
Vegetable tanning
Chrome tan Vs Vegetable tan Leather
Chrome tanning uses chromium salts and chemicals. This is a much more modern tanning process and results in making leather faster (1-2 days), which also makes chrome tan leather more affordable. Generally leather ends up being softer and a little more water repellent. Chemicals used can be both harmful to humans and the environment. These leathers are more susceptible to cracking, peeling and splitting after just a few years of use.
Vegetable tanning uses tree tannins and water. A very natural process no use of toxic substances. Environmentally friendly. It takes time however (40 - 60 days). Making vegetable tanned leather more expensive. This process results in the leather being a little firmer and it softens with use. It also allows the leather to develop the most beautiful patina with use. If your're into opening your new leather goods to the waft of an amazing woody aroma, then you are searching for a veg tan product.
Making leather wallets
There are generally two main categories of makers:
Mass produced
Small batch handmade leather artisans
Mass Produced Leather Wallets
Mass produced leather wallets are generally made as cheaply as possible. Using generally Pleather or chrome tanned leathers. The making process is streamlined to be very efficient and minimal, to keep the production costs low.
Sewing machines are often used when stitching many off the wallets available.
In my opinion these wallets are made to be turned over ever few months, helping to fuel and drive consumerism. This assists bigger brands and foreign countries make more money and sales.
Leather Wallets Australian Made
Artisan handmade leather wallets are all about show casing the skills and passion of the maker.
Using veg tan leather is important as it enhances the experience for both the maker and the end user.
You can choose to find a local artisan to support in your country, state or town. This allows high quality handcrafted leather goods and skills to be maintained.
Many choose to hand stitch still, using the saddle stitch. If a thread were to snap in a hand-stitched piece, the thread does not unravel and the leather pieces will not separate from each other. However in a machine sewn piece, the entire line of thread has the potential to unravel, allowing the leather pieces to separate.
Edges are beveled and polished by hand with the utmost care.
Every piece is a little unique and beautiful.
Consider Purchasing an Australian Wallet
It pays to do your research to workout the type of leather used and the making process for your next wallet purchase.
Buying a handcrafted veg tan leather wallet maybe a little more expensive upfront, however they are made to last.
Making a choice to support an Aussie maker helps to support the skills, jobs and economics of our country.
Comments