Steps in Leather Bag Creation: Coloring, Lining, Straps

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some basics on the process followed for creating leather bags and totes. While various different leather bag types will have slightly different processes here, many of them follow the same general steps, from material selection up through finalization of the design and sale of the item. 

At LifeTime Leather Co., we're proud to offer a wide range of leather bags and totes, featuring everything from duffle bags to toiletry bags, zipper totes and numerous other options. Today's part two of our series will go over the final steps involved in creation of a leather bag or tote.

Step 3: Coloring Themes

Once a leather product has been cut to its required dimensions and size, the next important job will be applying dye to the exposed surfaces. For most leather products, a series of coloring themes will need to be followed. These include base color, binding colors and top coat colors.

Base color refers to what color or combination of colors are used as the foundation for a product's design, as well as which sections of the design receive those colors as opposed to others. The binding color is the main color that will show up on the edges of a product, as well as around any stitching or embellishments included with a design. This is followed by a top coat, which is commonly used to give leather products a glossy finish and help protect their surfaces against moisture and other elements.

Leather duffle bags, tote bags and other similar products will often feature multiple base colors. These include one color for the main body of the bag itself, another for any zippers or hardware used in its design and a third for details included with the product, such as stitching or decorative studs.

Step 4: Lining Fabric

There are a wide range of fabrics that may be used to line the interior of a leather bag or tote, each with their own benefits and disadvantages. Part of this will be determined based on the specific type of lining desired for a particular piece.

The most common types of lining fabrics used in bags and totes include nylon, polyester and a variety of types of cotton. Nylon tends to be a popular choice in items that need to resist moisture, while polyester is often better for products where the lining may be exposed to oil or dangerous chemicals. Cotton can typically found in bags or totes when their owners will require them to hold dry goods such as clothing, bandanas or other types of apparel.

Step 5: Straps 

Finally, it's time to attach the all-important straps to the finished bag or tote. This is done in a two-fold manner, with one strap being attached through hinges so it can be folded when not in use and another being attached via riveting to the product's main body. Once this is completed, the final step will be testing out your creation for any loose pieces or defects that may be present. 

For more on how leather bags or totes are created, or to learn about any of our leather bags, wallets or other accessories, speak to the staff at LifeTime Leather Co. today.