What is Leather Goods?
Working with leather to create useful and decorative objects is known as leatherwork. This activity has a long history, dating back to the time when humans used animal skins to protect themselves from the cold and make utensils.
In this way, leatherwork is a skill that requires skill and creativity, as leatherwork artisans use a variety of techniques to work leather, from tanning to engraving. As for the origin, it is known that the term "leather goods" is derived from the word "Moroccan", since the first worked leather articles were imported from Morocco in the Middle Ages.
On the other hand, currently it should be mentioned that leather goods products are functional and aesthetically attractive. That is, they are used to store objects, protect themselves from the weather and express the individuality of the person who uses them, hence their importance in the latest design and fashion trends.
Elaboration process
The process of making leather goods is a complex task that requires specialized skills and knowledge. The key stages are:
Leather selection:
Leather is the main material of leather goods, so it is important to choose the right one for the specific application. Full grain leather is the most commonly used as it is durable and has a natural texture.
Cutting and shaping:
The leather is cut into precise patterns based on the desired design. To do this, tools such as cutting blades, rulers and cutting patterns are used.
Sewing:
Sewing is a crucial part of the process, since that joins the leather pieces together to create a solid structure. For this, specialized sewing machines and leather goods needles are used.
Finishing:
Finishing is the final stage, in which the product its final appearance. To do this, techniques such as dyeing, polishing and the application of details such as buttons and zippers are used.
What applications does leather goods have today?
Leather goods are an artisanal activity that combines tradition and innovation. Today, leather goods have multiple applications in the world of fashion, design and decoration. Some examples are:
- Fashion accessories:
Leather goods offer a wide variety of options to complement any look, from handbags to backpacks, passing through wallets, purses or keychains. Leather goods accessories can be of different styles, colors and shapes, adapting to the trends and tastes of each person.
- Footwear:
The Leather goods are also used to make shoes of all kinds, from sandals to boots, slippers or moccasins. Leather goods footwear can be comfortable, elegant or sporty, depending on the design and material used.
- Decoration:
Leather goods can serve to create decorative objects for the home or office, such as cushions, rugs, paintings or lamps. Leather goods can add warmth, originality and personality to any space.
Sustainability in Leather Goods
Sustainability has become a crucial issue in modern leather goods. Consumers are more aware of the importance of choosing environmentally friendly products. Some sustainable practices in leather goods include:
1. Use of Sustainable Leather
Sustainable leather goods focus on the use of responsibly sourced leather, from controlled sources and processed in an eco-friendly manner.
2. Eco Friendly Dye Techniques
The use of natural dyes and dyeing techniques that minimize environmental impact is a growing concern in the industry.
3. Promoting Durability
Sustainable leather goods focus on creating durable products that resist the passage of time, thus avoiding rapid obsolescence.
4. Reduce water and energy consumption:
Vegetable or natural tanning techniques can be used that do not require chemicals or large amounts of water. You can also take advantage of natural light or use alternative energy sources to illuminate or heat the workshop.
5. Support fair and local trade
You can buy the material from local suppliers that respect the human and labor rights of workers. The product can also be sold at a fair price that recognizes the value of artisanal work.
To end
Leather goods are an ancient art that continues to innovate and adapt to current tastes and care for the environment. By knowing the manufacturing process, the different applications and the advances towards sustainability, we can better value the variety and relevance of this art in our daily lives. Whether you want a fashion accessory or a decoration element, leather goods offer you a range of alternatives that fuse beauty, functionality and respect for the planet.
If you are dedicated to leather goods at Curtidos Menacho we encourage you to visit our leather catalog tanning where you will find a great diversity of leather lots, perfect for those projects you have in mind.