Good leather should become more personal with time. In this SARTE Journal guide, we look at grain, finish, construction and the details that help a leather piece develop character.
Start with the hide. Full-grain leather keeps the natural character of the hide, while the finishing process affects the feel, color and way the surface develops.
Then check the construction. Look for clean edge work, reinforced stress points and consistent stitching. These details are often the difference between something that simply looks premium and something that stays useful for years.