The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Leather Quality

GENUINE LEATHER - Nah! Keep it.

Fast forward a few years and now I can proudly say that my knowledge of leather has greatly expanded since I launched Tinbox Angel 10 years ago. Back then, my only encounter with leather was a sublime pair of tan suede leather trousers and my trusty black biker jacket that accompanied me through my teenage years.

I think it was the trousers what started my interest in leather, because that moment on, I felt a deep connection with this amazing textile, unaware of the significant role it would soon play in my life.

It's understandable that many people may not fully grasp the true cost and intricacies of purchasing leather. Instead of measuring by the meter (since cows aren't perfectly square), leather is bought in hides and at a significant cost.

Leather is crucial for my creations, and understanding its nuances can be overwhelming, particularly in terms of size and efficiency. Its importance in my designs cannot be overstated, which is why I exclusively use it in my own products. I procure leather solely for my signature pieces and unable to sell this raw material on to the public. It represents a substantial investment for my business and simply cannot justify the expense in providing this service.

Fantastic news! You'll discover numerous online leather sellers who offer smaller quantities at reduced prices to assist crafters in avoiding the hefty cost of purchasing a whole hide. 

Tinbox Angel isn't about current fashion trends, and we offer a limited range of hides in specific colours. Maintaining a diverse inventory of hides in various colours is not practical for a small business. It is crucial to use a leather hide efficiently to showcase its natural beauty and true value.

If you find a design you like, grab it while it's available. Other colours may be an option, but not always guaranteed and I will always specify the colours if any on the website. This is why we provide a swatch service, allowing you to touch and feel the leather before making a purchase.

Let me tell you a little bit more about buying leather

Consumers have been taught to value products labelled 'genuine leather' as high quality, but it is often the lowest quality leather made from low-quality hides, artificial processes, and bonding agents. It's thinner and mixed with other supportive textiles, so the leather becomes a vey small part of the product.  Genuine leather often leads to cracking and scratching from the sprayed-on colouring methods which reflects in a rather pungent and artificial smell. 

Tinbox Angel uses leather from reputable British suppliers, mainly full-grain leathers which is the top and strongest layer of the hide. Our brighter leathers are natural grain so still contain the original markings, without being 'altered' for that uniformed look you expect with cheaper brands. See Essence. Many of our products feature exquisite full-grain waxed and oiled leather, preserving the natural contours of the original hide. For a softer touch, lambskin "nappa" leather is often showcased, a choice often favoured by luxury manufacturers.

In a nutshell, love and cherish your handmade leather product.  Many hours of work has gone into the design and creation, not the mention the magnificent leather used.  Learn to appreciate the natural contours as leather is not perfect, nor should it be.  Leave the uniformed look to the mass producers and every now and then treat yourself to something special from Tinbox Angel.

Looking for something quick? Have a look at our ready to ship collection.  

Here you will find items in stock and ready to post.  We will even post a gift on your behalf, just ask and will do our best to accommodate your request.