Our Materials
We began working with leather to craft Australian-made accessories in the 1940s.
Over the decades, we've seen fashion trends come and go, but the timeless style, durability, and authenticity imbued within handcrafted leather accessories has remained the same.
Our leathers are categorised into three distinct grades which vary in characteristics.
Let's delve into the world of leather and shed light on the key differences between Full Grain Leather, Top Grain Leather, and Genuine Leather.
Full Grain Leather
Full Grain Leather is the cream of the crop when it comes to leather quality. Made from the finest raw Buffalo hides, this type of leather retains the natural grain and markings, showcasing the authentic beauty of the Buffalo.
It's soft, supple and yet incredibly durable, as it hasn't been altered or sanded to remove imperfections. With time, these Full Grain leathers develop a unique patina that adds character, making it more exquisite with time.
Its strength, breathability, natural character, and ability to age gracefully mean that Full Grain Leather is the best choice for a hard-wearing belt that, if cared for, can last a lifetime.
Top Grain Leather
Top Grain leather is derived from Full Grain leather, but the topmost layer of the hide is removed through a sanding process, eliminating scars, blemishes and imperfections.
While it loses some natural texture and thickness of the top layer of the hide, Top Grain Leather maintains its durability, suppleness, and overall quality. The leather is finIt is generally more consistent in appearance, offering a cleaner and more polished look.
Top Grain leather strikes a perfect balance between longevity and aesthetics.
Genuine Leather
Contrary to what its name might suggest, Genuine Leather refers to the lower tier of leather products, often made from layers of split hides.
To seal the surface, Genuine Leather is finished with a layer of polyurethane (PU) and texture is applied through a printing process. This gives the leather a glossy, uniform appearance that lends itself to business and formal occasions.
However well-worn Genuine Leather products may not last the distance, like their Full Grain or Top Grain counterparts.
Genuine Leather represents an affordable option which looks great, however it lacks the durability and authentic character of Full Grain and Top Grain Leather.
When making a leather purchase, understanding the differences between these types can greatly impact your decision. Full Grain Leather stands out for its unparalleled authenticity and durability. Top Grain Leather offers a balance between quality and aesthetics. Genuine Leather, though more affordable, falls short in terms of longevity and genuine luxury.
Investing in high-quality leather ensures a product that lasts, ages beautifully, and becomes an heirloom piece cherished for generations.
Find out more about our responsible leather sourcing practices