Veg Tan Leather and Product Care
Edie Kahula Pereira brand aesthetic is handcrafted, somewhat quirky, and always wabi sabi.
What is wabi sabi?
According to Wikipedia, wabi sabi is in traditional Japanese aesthetics, a world view centered on the acceptance of transience and imperfection. Sometimes described as beauty that is "imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete". As a brand, Edie Kahula Pereira celebrates this beauty of imperfection.
All leather used is made from cowhide. Leather is a natural product with its unique markings and grainy texture. Because of this, there will be some sort of variation in the leather used for Edie Kahula Pereira leather products. Dyed leathers will also have a slight variation in color.
All materials used to make Edie Kahula Pereira products are cut by hand using a rotary cutter, scissors, and ruler. Other tools used-- awl, leather punch, pins and needles, and sewing machine. All dimensions noted are to be considered approximate and not exact.
Important notes on Vegetable Tanned leather:
Veg-tan leather is a cowhide that is processed (tanned) using organic materials such as tree bark and other types of plant-based substances. Veg tan leather in its natural form is in a sense nude and susceptible to your environment. It is not dyed. If you get caught in the rain, rain spots will show. Your hand and body oils contribute to its patina (oxidizing of leather surface, everyday use and aging). Exposure to light and sun over time will darken the tone of the leather as will applying leather conditioner and repellent. Spills and spots do not wipe off instead they are absorbed by the leather and contribute to the rich caramel patina of your life. if you are bothered by spots, a surface color (patina) that darkens and other character building marks, veg tan leather might not for you. That said, veg-tan leather is my favorite leather. Its patina is like the living canvas of your life's adventures, each spot a memory.
CARE for your leather bag:
Leather lives and lives with you. We physically engage with our bags many times a day. Get to know your leather bag. Feel its texture (literally) with your hands. Leather softens over time and with use. Leather will also dry and crack overtime if not cared for. When you take the time to know your leather bag you will understand when it tells you it needs conditioning. There is a tactile difference between soft and dry. Be aware around the 6 month mark to look at and feel your bag for dryness, stiffness and dulling of color.
Two care suggestions:
- Take your bag to a reputable shoe repair to have your bag conditioned and/or
- Condition your bag with reputable leather care products. Follow their instructions. I personally use Fiebings Saddle Soap and Conditioner
Feel free to do your own research to find a product that works for you and your bag.
Thank you for your care of your leather bag.