What Is Saffiano Leather?
Some of the more observant among you might have noticed that a lot of the lovely products we stock at Van Mildert have the word ‘Saffiano’ featured somewhere in the label.
If you happen to be a leather or textile expert then, alas, you’ll find little use in our brief break down of the stuff. But, if like (some of) us, you sometimes get a little bit too preoccupied with the final product to ever really think ‘What exactly is Saffiano leather?’ we have done the all the leg work and research for you, to bring you this handy little insight into the mechanics behind your new arm candy – you’re welcome.
From Vivienne Westwood to Michael Kors, a lot of our most popular designer names love a bit of Saffiano leather. They incorporate it into everything from handbags, to purses, to shoes and it is especially popular among our brand new Spring/Summer 2016 collections.
In short, Saffiano leather is popular for 3 reasons: it’s durable, practical and easy to wipe clean. If you want to know a little bit more of the nitty gritty, read on…
The Production
Ever wondered why your Saffiano product look the way they do? Well, a lot of it is down to the production. Saffiano, being a textured leather, achieves its look through a unique stamping method. This is essentially what Saffiano leather is.
The leather is pressed on a machine for 10-15 seconds, giving it that recognisable cross-hatch finish, usually in a diagonal pattern.
The stamping process is followed by a wax treatment, the process which means you can fling your designer handbag about whilst it manages to keep looking super fresh. Lucky you!
The Markings
It is the diagonal and cross-hatch markings which makes the leather ultra-resistant to stains, scratches and even a bit of water (but not completely water resistant, still be careful with your product).
Rumour has it, that Saffiano leather was invented in one of Italy’s most famous tanneries in 1913 and was signature patent of Mario Prada himself…
Is leather always used?
No, leather isn’t always used. To begin with, the highest quality calf skin was the only material which underwent the Saffiano process, however, as time has gone by the technique has went on to be applied to more than just leather – sometimes a poly-urethan (faux) material is used.
This means that just because you read the word ‘Saffiano’ you shouldn’t assume it’s always calf leather. Often it may be a less expensive top layer material with the cross hatch design, which also passes as ‘Saffiano leather.’
Our favourite Saffiano products…
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Vivienne Westwood
Small Opio Saffiano Bag |
Michael Kors
Sutton Saffiano Satchel |
DKNY
Saffiano Tote Bag |
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