Understand different types of leather before you invest in a handmade bag

Before you decide to invest in a quality handmade bag, you should know that not all leather is the same. Knowing the differences between the various types of leather is crucial when you are faced with a variety of options on the market. This knowledge will not only help you choose the perfect leather bag, but will also be useful when selecting other leather items such as jackets, briefcases, or even luxurious gloves. Misuri will show you how to recognize a quality handmade leather bag and what kind of leather it should be made of.

Misuri is your guarantee of authentic artisan craftsmanship

The very first thing you should do when looking to purchase a handmade leather handbag is to turn to a reputable seller, instead of taking a chance on a manufacturer that may or may not adhere to traditional craftsmanship and sustainable practices, shop with Misuri so you can rest assured that you're selecting the highest quality types of leather bags available.

Misuri's expert artisans have been handcrafting leather goods for generations, ensuring that when you invest in a Misuri bag, you're making the best possible choice in terms of elegance, style, durability and environmental sustainability. In fact, in the historic Santa Croce leather district of Florence, Misuri is the only shop that still uses the traditional historic methods of craftsmanship. That means Misuri is the best place to invest in a truly authentic Florentine leather bag that carries the knowledge of artisans passed down from the centuries.

Exploring the elegance of Italian fine leather

One of the defining characteristics of Misuri's exceptional handmade bags is the use of exquisite Italian leathers. These types of leather, sourced from Italy, are renowned for their impeccable quality and luxurious texture. Crafted with sustainability in mind, Misuri predominantly employs vegetable-tanned leather, a time-honored and eco-friendly method that creates leather products of exceptional character and longevity. The vegetable tanning process not only ensures the durability of the leather but also allows it to age gracefully, developing a rich patina over time that tells a unique story of its journey with you. Moreover, this method aligns with Misuri's commitment to sustainable practices, making their bags a conscientious choice for those who value both style and environmental responsibility.

To elevate these already exceptional leathers further, Misuri employs the artistry of hand-painting. Skilled artisans meticulously apply paint to create stunning, one-of-a-kind designs, turning each bag into a true masterpiece. Whether it's the soft and supple calfskin or the indulgent luxury of lambskin, Misuri's dedication to handcrafting ensures that every bag exudes sophistication and exclusivity.

The art of hand-applied gold gilding on Misuri’s handmade bags

One of the exceptional and distinctive features that sets Misuri's handmade bags apart from others is the meticulous process of gold leafing, which is performed by skilled artisans. Each Misuri bag is handcrafted into a work of art through the intricate application of gold leaf.

The process begins with the selection of the finest gold leaf, known for its shimmering luster and lasting elegance. The gold leaf is carefully measured and cut to exact dimensions so that each piece is the perfect size for its intended location on the bag. The artisans, who have years of experience and a high regard for their craft, then apply these delicate gold leaf pieces to the surface of the bag with meticulous precision. This is where true artistry comes into play. Using special tools and a great deal of dexterity, they gently press the gold leaf onto the leather of the bag and flawlessly apply a pattern or the handbag owner's initials, for example.

Tips for identifying a high quality handmade bag

In addition to noting the types of leather used in the bags you're looking at purchasing, there are also a few other ways you can determine whether the bag you're looking at is a genuine product. Use your senses: you should be able to smell the leather and it should feel soft and malleable to the touch. And of course, when it comes to handmade bags, it should be immediately apparent that each item is unique and one of a kind, without a standardized appearance. Authentic handmade bags often exhibit minor irregularities, which actually enhance their charm and character. In contrast, bags that appear too perfect or uniform may be indicative of mass production. At Misuri, we take pride in our handmade bags, all of which carry the Made in Italy trademark. Our commitment to preserving the beauty of imperfections ensures that each Misuri bag has distinctive characteristics that enhance its appeal and individuality. Check out our online store at Misuri for stunning leather handbags.