5 Most Common Leathers Used in Making Designer Bags
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 leather must first be cleaned. Contrary to popular 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 the size of the hide.
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. 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 beyond those described above.
3. Retanning
Yes, leather must be retanned if it is to look its best. The retanning process involves dyeing to give it color and fatliquoring to add softness and fullness. Retanning leather 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 uncomfortable. 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 last 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 various 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 much more expensive than one from an unknown brand, 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. Many designer leather purses on sale can be found on Luxe.It.Fwd’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 discount designer bags today.
1. Full-Grain Leather
This is usually the top layer of the bag, found in the finer bags. Patent leather designer bag companies love full-grain leather.
2. Top Grain Leather
Top grain leather is the second layer of leather in most bags. It adds a good final touch and makes the bags look great. Many French designer bag companies opt for top grain leather for its ability to enhance the overall appearance.
3. Nubuck Leather
Nubuck leather differs from the previous two as it is used to create bags with rough surfaces. It is favored by many embroidered leather bag designer brands for its pleasant texture.
4. Suede Leather
Suede is a widely recognized type of leather used in both shoes and leather designer bags. Black suede is a particularly popular choice. Designer leather totes and backpacks made from suede are great options.
5. Nappa Leather
Named after Napa Valley in California, Nappa leather undergoes a unique tanning process, making it softer and more pliable than most leathers. The surface of this leather is unmodified, retaining its original markings and texture.
Get Your Leather Bag from Luxe.It.Fwd Today
Well, there you have it. We have informed you about everything you need to know regarding leather bags, how leather is made, and why you should consider adding one or two (or more) leather designer bags to your wardrobe. Here at Luxe.It.Fwd, we provide some of the best leather bags available. With years of experience and a well-deserved reputation, you can trust us to offer great options. So contact us today, and you won’t be disappointed!
