Quality

Defining this can present many problems, particularly due to its subjective nature. This is not a one-size-fits-all concept; it varies from person to person. It’s often described as the ordinary of extraordinary people and the extraordinary of ordinary people. So, how do we identify fine leather goods here at Kodawari? It about quality, raw materials, craftsmanship, originality in design, but also about the knowledge, passion, client experience and values demonstrated. Below are many of the guiding principles we use in developing our offerings for you, our client.

Fine leather goods are known for their long-lasting quality, exceptional design, aesthetic appeal, and superior craftsmanship. They often involve meticulous raw material selection and extensive training. They can evoke positive emotions  – it’s not just about possessing the goods; it’s about experiencing them over years and decades, creating memories with the item.

Essential Characteristics of Fine Leather Goods:

• Edge finishing: A smooth edge brings a clean aesthetic and a completed look. All of our products will use a painted or turned edge, requiring a higher level of skill and time needed to complete. A burnished edge can also be done if you request it, which requires the least amount of skill and time.
• Raised areas:  In some items, we have created contours that increase complexity and interest. The increased complexity requires additional skill and time, but can enhance the aesthetics of the good and provide additional functionality in certain cases.
• Hand stitching: A traditional approach that provides a stronger stitch over a sewing machine, provides additional options not available with a machine, and provides a more decorative and angled stitch. There is increased knowledge needed for the variables of leather, the type and size of thread, and tension are honed over time.
• Dyed through leather:  Leather that has been dyed through will look better over time as the scratches of life will be less visible.
• Leather tanning: There are two main types of tanning, vegetable and chrome-tanned leather. Each has their benefits, but where possible we lean towards vegetable-tanned leathers. Vegetable-tanned leathers, the traditional method, use tree and bark extracts to tan the leather over months, instead of chromium salts that take a day. Vegetable-tanned leather also has that true leather smell, while chrome-tanned has a more chemical smell to it. Vegetable-tanned leathers age beautifully over time, producing a soft patina with use, and is a more sustainable and environmentally friendly leather to produce. 
• Quality hardware: We use solid brass or stainless steel hardware, as these metals are not impacted by the leather and don’t have a plating to wear off over time. Brass can patina with the leather, while stainless steel has increased strength and durability.
• Linings: Where possible we have added lining to our goods, allowing for pockets and pouches without stitches being exposed on the outside of a bag. We use a variety of linings, including goatskin, lambskin, silk, waxed canvas and wool. All natural fabrics that have proven themselves over the centuries.
• One-piece leather design: Where possible, we try to use a single piece of leather for the main body of the good, rather than multiple smaller pieces stitched together. This increases the durability with less stitching and fewer seams.
• Tonal stitching: Highly  subjective, but our preference is for tonal stitching that closely matches that of the leather. While a great deal of effort goes into hand stitching, the leather is the star of the show, and a contrasting stitching tends to take away from that.
• Slim edges: To reduce the bulk of wallets, bags and other goods, the edges that are joined are thinned down, creating a sleeker look without compromising the durability of the good.
• Discrete logo: We are a firm believer that you investing in the good, don’t need to be a walking billboard for us.
• Timeless design: We believe the design should be relevant, functional and attractive over extended periods of time. 
• Personal consultation: fine leather goods are an investment, and you should have the opportunity to have your questions answered and walked through the process of creating the good you are after.

So, the next time you encounter a leather good, you’ll have a better understanding of what makes it truly fine.