What is Leather Patina?

Patina is what forms on natural materials such as wood, denim, canvas, metal and stone. It’s a signature of high-quality items not normally found on their cheaper counterparts (think of big box store jeans VS raw denim from Naked & Famous ).

Simply being worn, exposed to the elements or handled creates a signature sheen and antiquing effect.

Metals and stones are not really thought of when we talk about Patina, but we look at the Statue of Liberty as a perfect example of copper patina. From a deep, golden color to it’s famous green.

Today, we’ll be focusing on Leather Patina – because that’s what Popov Leather is all about. In case you’re new here, we make stuff out of leather.

1. The Definition of Patina

2. Why do People want Leather Patina?

3. How does Leather Patina Develop?

4. Which Leather shows the Best Patina?

5. Will Patina affect Quality of Leather?

6. How to get Leather Patina Faster

7. How to Slow Down Leather Patina

9. A Journey Without an End

Leather patina is what makes full grain leather stand apart from its cheaper counterparts such as “genuine” or “top grain” leathers.

From the scratches and marks your keys make on your wallet to the darker spots on your journal cover where your hand always touches and rubs. Leather Patina is something developed through everyday use.

The accumulation of dirt, body oils, sunlight and wear and tear create a darkening and soft sheen to leather goods. Over time the leather will oxidize and age naturally to give these effects.

This is a process that cannot be replicated through any artificial means.

It just takes time.

There are 3 main reasons why leather patina is so sought after:

• It’s as unique as the person
• It looks better with age
• It’s a hallmark of high quality

For every wallet we make, no two will ever be the same. Even more so, after it ends up in someone’s hands.

Every leather wallet, book cover, belt, and keychain will develop patina and be as unique as the person who carries it. The darker the patina, the richer the story.

In other words: every item has a story to tell.