Process
SUSTAINABILITY AND ETHICS:
At our company, sustainability and ethical practices are of utmost importance to us. We are proud to share our commitment to these principles.
First and foremost, all of our leather is sourced as a byproduct of the food industry. We prioritize using vegetable and oiled-tanned leathers whenever possible. Vegetable tanning is a traditional and environmentally friendly method that utilizes tannins derived from bark. Similarly, our oiled tanned leather achieves a water-resistant finish using oil infused with tannins.
To ensure ethical standards, we exclusively work with transparent suppliers known for their compliance with ethical labor practices, and adherence to environmental laws. This approach helps minimize our impact on the environment.
We make conscious efforts to minimize leather waste by utilizing all leather off-cuts and scraps in our bags or recycling them. We are proud to mention our CAMIA bag, crafted from patchwork leather pieces, which has already repurposed over 600lbs of leather scrap.
Manufacturing takes place in our Toronto Atelier, where a small all-female team handles every aspect of production, from cutting and sewing to adding hardware. Our dedication to quality craftsmanship is evident in each handbag and accessory we create.
We stand behind the durability of our products and offer a lifetime warranty on all our pieces.
MANUFACTURING:
Our studio is located in Toronto's Junction neighbourhood, allowing us to maintain full control over our production methods and practices. From cutting out the leather to edge coating, punching holes, sewing, setting grommets, rivets, and hardware, every step is meticulously performed by hand.
LEATHER:
We have a deep passion for leather and devote significant time to finding the perfect hide for our products. Our leather selection is chosen with our clientele in mind, ensuring it is both durable and capable of lasting for decades while developing a beautiful patina over time. We carefully vet the manufacturing process to align with our ethical practices.
Our Current Leather Selection:
Black Soft Leather from Argentina
Crafted from full-grain tumbled leather, this material features a matte finish and a buttery soft feel. Durable and low-maintenance, it is designed to withstand daily wear and tear. Our tannery holds a Bronze rating from the Leather Working Group (LWG), an independent auditing organization that promotes transparency and accountability in the leather supply chain. LWG audits evaluate key areas including:
Water and energy usage
Waste and effluent management
Air and noise emissions
Traceability
Health and safety
Chemical management
Compliance with restricted substances and MRSL (Manufacturing Restricted Substances List)
This leather represents our commitment to sustainability and responsible sourcing.
NOTIONS:
We believe that every detail matters, including the hardware we use. Our notions are sourced from reputable manufacturers in Italy, the United States, and China, all of whom meet our specifications and adhere to ethical practices.
We have cited the following sources to support our commitment to sustainability and responsible leather practices:
- "Rendering & Leather Reduce Environmental Impact - The U.S."
- "Leather - Wikipedia."
- "Recyc Leather™ | Sustainable Recycled Leather."
Thank you for taking the time to learn about our process and values. If you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out to us.