Leather bags have been a symbol of high status and wealth for decades. Not only are they stylish, but they are durable, functional, and look great with almost any outfit. If you’re wondering about the construction and/or price of leather designer bags, then you’ve come to the right place. 

Read on to learn everything there is to know about leather designer bags in Australia. 

 

How Is Leather Made?

The process of making a leather designer bag is certainly not easy. It is a multi-step process that requires time and attention to produce the quality leather you deserve. Below, we have outlined the five key steps creators’ take in leather production. 

1. Cleaning

To create something beautiful, unrefined materials such as the leather must first be cleaned.

Contrary to people’s belief, cleaning leather is much more complicated than simply spraying high-pressure water at the hide. Known as “beamhouse,” the process of cleaning leather involves removing hair, grease, and salts. The leather is then soaked in water for up to two days, depending on how big the hide is. 

2. Tanning

If you thought that cleaning leather was complicated, tanning it is much more so. In fact, it may very well be the most challenging process of leather production that there is. We have outlined the essential steps that one must take to tan a leather hide below:

  • Fleshing

  • Preservation

  • Soaking

  • Liming

  • Splitting

Tanning is a long and arduous process that requires time and dedication to get it right. Large designer leather bag brands usually have additional steps to the tanning process further to the one’s described above. 

3. Retanning

Yes, leather must be retanned if it is to look its best. The retanning process involves dyeing to give it colour and fatliquoring to add softness and fullness. Retanning leather is the process that determines the final use of the leather, as different leather requirements are needed for bags, jackets, or footwear. Final product value also dictates how seriously the retanning process is taken. 

4. Milling

This step relates to the final “sub-step” of the retanning process: softness. Nobody likes leather that is not soft to the touch or isn’t comfortable. For this reason, leather makers and designers take softness very seriously.

Designer brands such as Louis Vuitton use milling to ensure their leather bags have a high quality, premium feel. 

5. Finishing

Finally, we come to the final step of the leather-making process. After the leather has been cleaned, tanned, retanned, and softened, it’s time to add the final surface.

There are a variety of different finishes that can be added to the leather to enhance traits such as protection, feel, or fashion. This is known as “finished leather.”

Why Are Some Leathers Much More Expensive Than Normal Leather? 

The cost of a leather bag is dependent on its quality, rarity, and, of course, brand name. For example, a Louis Vuitton bag is usually going to be much more expensive than one from another brand that nobody knows about regardless of its quality. 

These factors all affect the price of leather designer bags. Australia, though, has some of the best leather bags on the market. For example, many designer leather purses on sale can be found on Luxe.It. Fwd’sFwd’s website. 

What Are the 5 Most Common Leathers Used In Making Leather Designer Bags? 

Another factor determining the price of leather bags is the type of leather. Below, we have listed the five most common types of leather used in producing a discount designer bag today. 

1. Full-Grain Leather

This is usually the top layer of the bag. However, it can also be found in different areas of the bag. Usually, it’s used in the finer bags out there. Patent leather designer bag companies love full-grain leather. 

2. Top Grain Leather

Interestingly enough, top grain leather is the second layer of leather in most leather bags. It adds a good final touch and makes the bags look great. Many leather French designer bag companies opt for top grain leather for its ability to make the whole bag look fabulous. 

3. Nubuck Leather 

This type of leather is quite different from the previous two. While full-grain leather and top grain leather add a smooth texture to bags, nubuck leather is used in the creation of bags with rough surfaces. It is used by most embroidered leather bag designer brands in their products. 

Many leather frame designer bag companies will choose to use Nubuck leather because it’s also nice to the touch. 

4. Suede Leather

Suede is a type of leather that most people out there—even non-leather fans—have heard about. This is because suede is definitely one of the most common types of leather used in both shoes and any leather designer bag. In addition, black suede is a popular choice.

Designer leather totes on sale are also a great option when made from suede. On this topic, a designer leather backpack made from suede is a great addition too. 

5. Nappa Leather

Named after Napa Valley in California, Napa leather is a high-quality leather that goes through a unique tanning process, making it softer and pliant than most leathers. The surface of this leather hasn’t been modified, which means it’s full-grain. This retains the original markings and texture of the material.

 

Get Your Leather Bag from Luxe.It.Fwd Today

Well, there you have it. We have informed you of everything you need to know regarding leather bags, how leather is made, and why you should add maybe one or two (or more) leather designer bags to your wardrobe. 

Here at Luxe.It.Fwd, we provide some of the best leather bags out there. With years of experience and a well-deserved reputation to back us up, you can trust us to provide you with great options. So contact us today, and you won’t be disappointed!