Our products come from sheep and goat skins that are sourced exclusively as a by-product of the local food industry in Bangladesh, helping to further reduce waste in their country and our environment. Each skin is produced using a traditional vegetable tanning process, creating a much smaller impact on the environment compared to the typical chemical tanning processes.
With these traditional processes and natural materials come a degree of variation in skin and intensity of colour enhancing the attractive qualities of each piece. Over time a natural change in colour can also be expected as each item develops its unique patina.
Embossing Using Blocks
Hand embossing using blocks with patterns is a traditional artisanal technique employed in various crafts, including leatherworking. In Bangladesh, skilled craftsmen utilize this method to embellish leather goods with intricate designs, adding a touch of elegance and uniqueness to each piece. The process begins with the selection of a suitable design, often carved into wooden blocks with precision.
Once the design is chosen, the leather surface is prepared by moistening it slightly to make it more receptive to the embossing process. The artisan then places the selected block onto the leather and applies pressure evenly across the surface using specialized tools or a mallet.
The result is a beautifully embossed pattern that is permanently imprinted onto the leather.
Hand Skiving Leather
Skiving is a traditional leatherworking process in Bangladesh that involves thinning or reducing the thickness of leather in specific areas. Skiving is typically performed using specialised tools like skiving knives or machines.
By carefully thinning the leather, artisans can achieve smoother and more uniform finishes, enhancing the overall quality and appearance of the final product.
The skiving process requires a keen eye for detail and precision to ensure consistent thickness and smooth transitions between different parts of the leather. It is a fundamental step in leatherworking, allowing artisans to create durable and aesthetically pleasing leather goods that showcase the traditional craftsmanship of Bangladesh.
Vegetable-Tanning
In the world of traditional craftsmanship, vegetable tanning is a process that celebrates the vibrant colours of nature. Here's how it unfolds: Artisans collect a rich array of natural materials like tree bark, roots, and fruits, each bursting with its unique colour potential. These botanical treasures are carefully processed and brewed into a concoction, infusing the hides with hues ranging from earthy browns to fiery reds.
The hides soak up these natural dies, undergoing a transformative journey as they absorb the rich pigments. It's a slow, patient process that can take weeks, allowing the colours to seep deep into the fibres. Once dyed, the hides are expertly handcrafted by skilled artisans using traditional techniques.
The finished products showcase the stunning array of colours obtained through vegetable tanning. From subtle earth tones to bold, vivid hues, each piece tells a story of craftsmanship and the natural world, ready to delight.