The Main Characteristics Of Our Signature Leather

Full grain leather is considered the most desirable type of leather, in comparison with its top and split leather counterparts.

Its close grain pattern means that it is the most durable and attractive type of leather. Full grain leather is, after all, taken from the strongest part of the skin, farthest away from the flesh. This also retains the natural markings of the cow which ensures distinct character.

Over time, as the leather is used, full grain leather improves as it naturally develops a stunning and unique patina. Full grain leather is, therefore, the very best way to honor the beauty of the natural cowhide.

The Maxwell-Scott Glossary

Top Grain Leather

This is the most common type of leather on the market. It is obtained by splitting the top layer of skin from blemished hides and then treating them to produce a smooth, flexible leather. Over time, it has the tendency to stretch permanently.

Split Leather

Split leather is the cheapest type of leather and is sourced from the layer of the skin closest to the flesh. It retains none of the natural markings of the cow and as such, is often treated in order to mimic full grain leather. Overall, it lacks significant durability and an authentic look.

To ensure the very best, at Maxwell-Scott, we are also specific about the portion of the hide that we use. We utilize the saddleback where the fibres are tightest. This is significant as it further ensures the durability of our products, as the lower portion of the hide tends to have looser fibres that can swell when wet and are often more marked or wrinkled.

The beauty of our leather is its natural aesthetic. Each skin is different and so, we believe that it is important to highlight the attractive nature of the leather. The untreated animal markings of full grain leather also make every product entirely unique. To preserve this charm we use the traditional vegetable-tanning process.

Vegetable-tanning is a traditional process which is deeply rooted in the heritage of the Italian leather industry. It is still a way of life for many in Tuscany. This natural process can take up to 40 days and aptly reflects our commitment to artisanal production and slow consumerism.

Importantly, as members of the Genuine Italian Vegetable Tanned Leather Consortium, we only use cowhides which are a byproduct of the meat industry. These hides are then naturally tanned with bark extract dyes from chestnut, quebracho and mimosa trees. Without any toxic chemicals, this process instead offers a rich, warm tone highlighting the natural beauty of the leather.

It is a process which relies on care and attention. From the preservation of the fresh skin in order to maintain the optimum condition of the skin to tanning and drying, a sense of pride in this traditional skill is clear. As the leather is not finished with a chemical seal, it will then absorb the world around it, enhancing the stunning nature of the leather.

Our signature leather is available in four classic colors: Chestnut Tan, Dark Chocolate Brown, Wine and Night Black.

Just as time is vital to the vegetable-tanning process, it is also crucial to patina. Patina is the manifestation of the natural ageing process of the leather and is desired by many for its individual and ‘lived in’ nature. It is the hallmark of the highest quality leather.

Over time, with wear and use, the leather develops a unique sheen which maps your many adventures. This is because it absorbs the world’s elements, be that movement, sunlight, heat or the natural oils that your body produces. How you use your bag will affect how the patina develops. Sunlight and heat for example will bring out our leather’s golden tones whereas rain and sea water will leave splash marks and natural oils from your hands will cause darker patches to form. As these are combined, patina suggests a timeless heirloom which is completely and utterly yours.

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