FAQs

If you make two wallets of the same color and model, how can you claim that they are unique pieces?

We use only full-grain leather for our products. This leather is unprocessed and retains the natural characteristics of the hide. Our items may have natural scars, which we believe add to their authenticity. Features like a live edge or insect bites also contribute to this quality. Each piece becomes unique as it absorbs oils or dyes with use, developing a distinct patina. If you buy two wallets of the same model and color and use them both, they will look different after a year. There is a wide variety of hides, and it can be hard to understand what constitutes good quality leather. After thorough research, we can assure you that full-grain leather from local tanneries is of the highest quality. These tanneries produce unaltered hides while prioritizing environmental sustainability. While there are other good leathers, we avoid pressed, PVC-bonded leather that won't last. In short, we use only the best: vegetable-tanned Swedish (sometimes Italian, when mentioned) full-grain leather. Occasionally, we also incorporate goatskin, deerskin, or waxed canvas for bag and wallet inlays.

What is Full-grain Leather?

Full-grain leather is the strongest and densest part of the hide, taken from the top layer after the hair is removed. Top-grain leather is similar but has a sanded and buffed surface for a smoother finish, often used for more polished products. Sometimes, we split full-grain hides to create thinner leather for items like wallets; the lower layer is called suede. Suede is also a great material when used correctly, such as in duffel bags or aprons. We do not use any other kind of leather, as they do not develop patina, get damaged quickly, or are simply bad for the environment.

What do you mean by rough-out leather?

Rough-out refers to using full-grain leather with the suede side facing out. This creates a matte finish and adds grip, enhancing the rugged appearance by displaying veining and details from the hide.

Where do you source your raw material?

We focus on vegetable-tanned leather, which we try to source locally or from reputable tanneries with good environmental programs. Our thread is made from 100% polyester from Germany, finely braided (like a really long tube), and uniformly waxed. This gives it great strength and UV resistance. All dyes, conditioners, and glues are eco-friendly and water-based.

How do I care for my leather product?

Leather is a dynamic material that will absorb oils from your body or dyes from your clothes. This is expected and will contribute to the development of a unique patina. The main thing is to prevent the leather from drying out, and you can use organic balms to keep it supple. On the other hand, do not leave the leather in wet conditions. Note that the fit might be affected or the leather may deform if your product gets wet or immersed in water.

Why is it hard to get my cards out of the wallets?

Leather can stretch when not in use, which is why using shoe trees for real leather shoes is helpful. When you use a wallet, it absorbs oils from your hands, making it easier to pull out cards. With regular use, it becomes smoother over time. This break-in period can last from a few days to a few weeks, depending on how often you use it.

What is saddle stitching?

We hand-sew all our products without machines. Saddle stitching uses a knot at each stitch, making it less likely to unravel compared to machine stitching. Both stitches are strong, but we prefer saddle stitching for its superior strength and the ability to heavily wax the thread. Machine stitching can leave marks on the leather, which I dislike. While saddle stitching may not be as uniform as machine stitching, we value that unique look and prioritize quality over cost or speed. A simple card holder wallet has over 50 individual stitches, and our bags have over 1,000 stitches, requiring skill and patience to create.

Why can't you have an online store and sell standard products?

We aim to create a unique piece that reflects your personality and meets your functional needs. We don't offer standard products, but rather embrace 'no customization limits.' At Löfmark Design Studio, we take pride in crafting one-of-a-kind pieces. While many other stores and crafters offer standard products, we focus on making custom, bespoke heritage pieces tailored just for you.

What do you mean by live edge?

A live edge on leather refers to the natural, untrimmed edge of the leather hide. This edge retains the original shape and texture of the hide, including any irregularities, markings, or characteristics that occur naturally on the animal's skin. Unlike finished or beveled edges that are cut and polished for a uniform look, a live edge showcases the raw, organic beauty of the leather. It is often used in products to emphasize the authenticity and natural origin of the material, giving each piece a unique and rustic appearance. This feature highlights the uniqueness and authenticity of the product.

What is a typical order process for a dog collar?

Once you contact us, we’ll figure out the theme of the dog collar, whether it's for a tough Rottweiler or a stylish Chihuahua. This helps us suggest the best options. If it's a simple collar for a large dog with a sturdy D-ring, we’ll send you a blank collar with several adjustment holes to find the best fit. You'll also get leather samples to choose from based on what suits your dog. After you share your preferences, like a goatskin lining or adding initials, we’ll start making the collar. Your furry friend will get the perfect, high-quality collar as promised.

What is up with your logo. Looks like a turtle but what is on the inside?

We wish we had a dollar for every time we've heard this question. Maybe one day we'll reveal the answer—or even hold a contest with a prize for whoever guesses it right!

Why don’t you use conventional leather oils in your leather balm?

We recognize that many alternative leather treatment products trends on the market. However, we’ve chosen not to include Mink oil, Lanolin, or synthetic ingredients in our formula. Our goal is to create product that can be applied by hand and doesn’t seep into your skin.

It’s worth noting that many products labeled as “Mink oil” are actually blends containing ingredients like silicone, neatsfoot oil, and lanolin. In contrast, our leather balm is 100% ecological and cosmetic-grade, made from the same base ingredients used to craft skincare creams and lotions.

We take pride in our carefully crafted recipe and stand confidently behind it. We don’t intend to follow trends but to do what is right.