Leather work for cutlery is an ancient craft that involves cutting, sewing, sometimes molding the leather and then polishing the edges. This is done to create unique and functional pieces. Leather craftsmen use specialized tools such as matrices, reeds, hole punches, waxed thread and dyes to give the leather shape and color.
Leather knife sheaths are often made by the knifemakers themselves who want to take the creative process to the next level and give their blades a custom-made sheath.
The craftsman must adapt perfectly to the dimensions of the knife to ensure a durable protection against scratches and scuffs.
The sheaths are made with vegetable tanned bull leather, sometimes with inserts of exotic leathers (crocodile, lizard, caiman, elephant...). The characteristics of these vegetable tanned leathers, offer all the advantages for the protection of a blade: resistance, solidity and possible personalization. Moreover, the leather scraps can be reused as a martyrdom or as a belt loop.
In addition to their functionality, leather knife sheaths also offer an aesthetic that is unique to each knife maker. Leather can be dyed in a variety of rich colors. Finishes can also vary, from a glossy look to a more raw, textured look. Adding decorative patterns with matting dies allows for a unique customization of the case. Many patterns can be hammered or carved into the leather.
In summary, vegetable tanned leather is the material of choice for knife sheaths. We have chosen to partner with the Sovos Tannery, whose reputation for quality leather is well established, especially for knife makers. This is a partnership that we are considering for the long term and in full transparency. We have developed a range of leathers in pieces that is accessible and adapted to beginners and experienced cutlers. A work engaged during several months with local cutlers who confirmed the characteristics of the ideal leather.
