The process of vegetable tanning is slower, more natural and creates less pollution. Vegetable tanning is a chromium-free method, which does not use the harmful chemicals other tanning techniques often do. It is an older, artisanal process that takes advantage of the tannic acids naturally found in some plant species, by using the barks, branches, leaves and some fruits. The tannic acids bind to the collagen proteins in the hide and coat them, causing them to become less water-soluble and more resistant to bacterial attack. It ensures an organic look and feel for the finished leather, while also being better for the environment.

High-end British leather has a long-standing reputation for quality, consistency and reliability. Dream’s Code particularly uses bridle and calfskin leather but also uses high quality panel hide, dressed calf, shadow hide, pig suede and sheepskin, and always makes sure to get the best quality of the leather to create the best product possible.

Bridle Leather

English bridle leather is a vegetable tanned cowhide/steerhide that is made from the highest quality English animal skins. It is dyed in drums in order to develop deep consistent colours with waxes and tallows. Bridle leather is versatile and can be used to make belt, small leather good, handbag and luggage, which is pleasant to work with and produces beautiful final products.

Smooth Calfskin

Fine calfskin leather has a smooth, waxy surface. When vegetable tanned the leather keeps its natural and smooth look. The calfskin selected by Dream's Code is made from the thicker parts of the calf, which is particularly valued for its softness, its fine grain and durability.

 

                                                               LEATHER CARE

 

Vegetable tanned leather is a fine material that shows its wear beautifully over time but also requires specific care. Due to the delicate nature of the material natural veining and marks may occur, however it also means your accessory will acquire a unique patina through use and a personal and strong character.

Here are some advices to take care of your bag:

Now that you have your beautiful new leather bag, the next step is to make sure that you look after your bag so that it’ll stay with you for a very long time. Proper frequent maintenance will help your bag last a while and avoid issues that are common to leather goods.

All of our products are made with the finest British leather and, as all leather, will age with time. Even with excellent care, they will still age but a well looked after and aged bag is just as beautiful as a new one, if not even more.

With time and wear the leather might lose its moiture and dry. To avoid this, the best way is to apply the leather polish provided or to use a dash of sunflower/vegetable oil, on a dry, clean sponge or cloth. Rubbed over the bag evenly will work to re-oil the leather.

If you use your bag everyday scratches are almost unavoidable but don’t worry most scratches can be treated or avoided.

To treat scratches, if the scratches are small, rub it gently with your fingers as the natural oils on your finger will work into the leather. For larger scratches and marks apply a tiny amount of oil to the mark, let it soak in for a few minutes and then wipe the excess away with a clean soft cloth. If the scratches are still visible you can use leather polish or a dye to cover the scratched area.

WARNING! Always spot test before you apply any sort of products on the leather, to see if you are happy with the results before proceeding on the complete bag.

If you have any questions please contact us by email at info@dreamscode.co.uk.