The Craft

Quality British Made Bags and Accessories, Made Slowly

Every CARV leather bag and accessory is carefully crafted by hand - without any machines - using centuries-old, low energy artisan leathercraft techniques. We believe this results in beautiful pieces that you can cherish, made to last.

Designing A Bag

The first step is the idea. This means putting pen to paper and sketching out thoughts, usually over a cup of tea.  Becky’s design style is intentionally minimalist to achieve a fuss-free look that showcases the natural qualities of the vegetable tanned leather and beautifully handcrafted detailing. Find out more about the CARV design style and story.

Our Story
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Hand Selecting the Materials

Choosing the right leather is an art - you want it to look beautiful while being right in terms function.

Leather comes in many different forms, it can be stiff or soft, smooth or raised grain, different thicknesses and different colours. We often use contrasting colour with bright linings as a lovely surprise when the bag is opened.  

All CARV bags are made using vegetable tanned leather sourced in the UK. Vegetable tanning is a traditional chemical-free process which uses natural products such as bark to create leather.

Beautiful hardware such as buckles, studs and feet can make all the difference in the styling of a bag. We love brass and gold because it looks great against the tan and black coloured leathers.

About Our Leather

  • Making A Bag Pattern

    A mock up of every bag is made to test out the dimensions and refine the design before making the paper pattern, with marks showing the location of details such as slots for straps and stitch lines for pockets. In addition to the main CARV collection Becky also offers a custom leather bag design service where you can either tweak a CARV design or bring your own idea to life.

  • Becky from CARV marking out a leather bag pattern

    Marking and Hand Cutting

    Once the marks are all transferred onto the leather with a scratch awl, a sharp knife and steel ruler are used to cut out the leather pieces.  Becky uses use a shoe makers knife, but you can also use a clicking knife or scalpel. Keeping tools sharp is essential for ensuring accuracy and perfection.

  • Leather Embossing

    The CARV logo is embossed on the leather using a one tonne arbor press, customised for use in leatherwork. There is also the option to personalise pieces with embossed initials on many of the CARV leather goods.

  • Hands stitching a leather purse

    Quality Hand Stitching & Finishing

    The quality of hand stitching is key to the finish of bespoke leather bags.  A beautiful hand stitch is a noticeably better quality than a machine stitch. Hand stitching involves threading two needles on a waxed length of thread and then running the thread through the holes to secure the stitch.
Why handmade leather bags are the best

‘Absolutely amazing bag! I’ve wanted one for years since I first laid my eyes on them and could not be happier now that I’ve finally purchased it.’ ~ Renae (Pioneer Midi Tan Leather Bag)

MORE REVIEWS OF CARV

Exploring The Art of Leathercraft

Think leathercraft is just about crafting bags, wallets and belts? Think again. This timeless skill is way more than just a hobby. It’s a beautiful mix of heritage, creativity, and impeccable craftsmanship. For centuries, leather has been prized for its durability and charm—and whether you're admiring a sleek leather bag or trying your hand at crafting one, leathercraft has a way of capturing hearts.

Curious to know more? Let's step into the world of leathercraft—from its deep historical roots to the innovative techniques that keep the tradition alive today.

A Glimpse into Leathercraft's Rich History

Did you know leathercraft goes as far back as ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome? Back then, leather wasn’t just useful—it was a status symbol, crafted into armor, sandals, and even decorative trinkets. Over the years, leather became synonymous with elegance and longevity, with artisans mastering their skills to produce items that stood the test of time.

Fast-forward to today, leathercraft continues to shine with brands and skilled artisans blending age-old techniques with modern touches. While the tools and trends have evolved, the essence of leathercraft—turning raw material into timeless pieces—remains as strong as ever.

What is Leathercraft?

At its core, leathercraft is all about designing, shaping, and assembling leather into functional or decorative pieces. Think handbags, belts, wallets, shoes—the possibilities are endless.

Creating these pieces requires more than a steady hand. It’s about choosing the right leather, using precise tools, and applying techniques that add character and charm, like embossing or flawless stitching.

Types Of Leather You Should Know

Not all leather is created equal. Here’s a quick guide to the most popular types and what makes each one special:

1. Full-Grain Leather

The crème de la crème of leathers. Full-grain keeps the hide’s natural surface intact, imperfections and all. Over time, it develops a rich patina, making it even more stunning with age. When you see a product made from full-grain leather, you know it’s built to last.

2. Top-Grain Leather

Looking for a smooth, uniform finish? Top-grain is slightly sanded to remove imperfections while keeping a balance of durability and elegance—a top pick for modern leather goods.

3. Genuine Leather

Despite its name, genuine leather isn’t the highest quality. It’s made from leftover layers after the top grain is removed, and while it gets the job done, it doesn’t offer the same durability or richness as premium options.

4. Suede

Soft, velvety, and oh-so-luxurious, suede is made from the underside of the hide. Though it requires extra care, it’s a favorite for chic accessories and trendy clothing.

5. Vegetable-Tanned Leather

Eco-friendly and full of character, vegetable-tanned leather uses natural tannins, giving it a rich, earthy aroma. It’s also perfect for intricate tooling and embossing.

Why Leathercraft Is An Art Form

Leathercraft isn’t just about making functional items—it’s an art form. Here’s what makes it so special:

  • Unmatched Durability: With proper care, leather goods last for decades.
  • Timeless Elegance: Leather never goes out of style.
  • Eco-Friendly Options: Vegetable-tanned leather and recycled materials make it a sustainable alternative.
  • Personalisation: You can have pieces that are uniquely yours.

Fall in Love with Leathercraft

There’s something magical about holding a beautifully crafted leather item. Maybe it’s the heritage woven into its seams or the perfect mix of practicality and beauty. Whatever it is, leathercraft has a timeless appeal that’s hard to resist.