Armor Tote Bag

Drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese armor craftsmanship, this collection of unisex bags is designed with that concept at its core, enabling modern individuals to experience the spirit of traditional samurai in their everyday lives, irrespective of gender. Over 200 "armor plates," meticulously cut from firm leather, are intricately connected using specialized armor-making cords. The upper section is crafted from soft leather, creating a harmonious blend of firmness and flexibility, ensuring the bags are neither too rigid nor too soft. Materials: Imported Italian vegetable-tanned leather, soft leather Dimensions: Length 34cm x Height 23cm x Depth 8.5cm **Handcrafted** It has been over two centuries since the dawn of the Industrial Revolution. During this time, a segment of us has developed a different perspective on industrialized mass production, leading to a redefinition of the value of fully handcrafted goods. https://i.pinimg.com/564x/68/63/51/6863514547c3517cae9649f56433f421.jpg Initially, we chose to create everything by hand simply because it was the most straightforward approach. However, as time passed, through every stitch, every hole, every cut, and every piece, we gained a new understanding. We began to feel as though we were imbuing each creation with life, energy, and intention, much like artists pouring their vitality into their work. In different states of being, each detail will exhibit subtle variations. These minor imperfections are precisely what lend a lingering, human essence to the product. https://i.pinimg.com/564x/02/7b/39/027b394f71ac9949d6d887c64fe0c53a.jpg Unlike machine stitching, every stitch and thread in our products is meticulously sewn by hand. Employing traditional techniques, we use a saddle stitch that passes the thread completely through both the front and back of the leather, firmly securing the structure of the leather goods. Adhering to the principle of "If you're going to do it, do it to the best of your ability," we dedicate ourselves to the meticulous burnishing and finishing of the leather edges, a hallmark of high-level craftsmanship. Using a specially formulated edge finish, we repeatedly apply and allow it to dry, ultimately creating smooth, complete edges that elevate the finished product to a new level of refinement. https://i.pinimg.com/564x/45/05/ba/4505ba3b7609bb22a441d6d4f170d37a.jpg **Leather Care** The black and tan vegetable-tanned leathers have undergone a color-setting process at the tannery, making them less prone to oxidation and discoloration compared to natural-colored leather. Vegetable-tanned leather thrives in dry environments, so it's best to store it in a well-ventilated area, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. **Advanced Care** Mink oil is revered by artisans as "the finest leather conditioner." It does not cause discoloration on vegetable-tanned leather and helps to lock in moisture, providing excellent water-repellent protection. https://i.pinimg.com/564x/fc/a2/49/fca24902da73ee1b476364f349618ad6.jpg For maintenance, we recommend first using a dry cotton cloth or sponge to wipe away any dust from the leather. Then, take a clean cotton cloth or sponge, apply a moderate amount of mink oil, and gently polish the leather until the oil is fully absorbed. After polishing, the leather surface will achieve a noticeable sheen, and the leather will appear darker. However, as the oil is absorbed and evaporates, it will soon return to its natural state. This conditioning can be performed periodically, typically every 1-2 months. However, if you choose to do it weekly, that would be our greatest pleasure. **Vegetable-Tanned Leather** All products are crafted using leather produced under the strict supervision of the Consorzio Vera Pelle Italiana Conciata al Vegetale (Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium). This leather is globally recognized for its quality. Established in 1994, the consortium comprises 11 tanneries in Tuscany, all adhering to the association's stringent regulations and employing time-honored traditional vegetable tanning techniques. https://i.pinimg.com/564x/fd/cd/ed/fdcded8f03eb960cedaa7e1d97a6bc91.jpg Historical records indicate that the vegetable tanning method was invented by the Hebrews in the 11th century BC. They would repeatedly immerse leather in natural plant materials such as leaves, branches, and fruits for extended periods, allowing the leather to fully absorb the tannins from the plants. This process resulted in vegetable-tanned leather with high density, superior toughness, and exceptional durability. A complex process, yet one that is closer to nature. https://i.pinimg.com/564x/d0/c4/d8/d0c4d801ae750ef47179b032d58bc59b.jpg Today, tannins can be extracted from plants, and under the strict compositional standards controlled by the Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium, vegetable-tanned leather is produced that is free from heavy metals and other harmful substances. Compared to chrome-tanned leather, which is produced using chemical tanning agents, vegetable-tanned leather retains its natural and harmless qualities. Because the vegetable tanning process does not involve any chemical tanning agents or dyes, its surface retains the most natural grain patterns, growth marks, and traces of scars. To honor this, we must embrace imperfections, as they serve as proof of uniqueness. Therefore, during the production process, we strive to preserve these characteristics whenever they do not compromise the structural integrity of the leather goods. **Production Time** All products are made to order. This approach ensures that every item is new and will not age due to being kept in stock. Therefore, the production time is 14 days (excluding weekends and holidays). You will be notified immediately if your order is completed ahead of schedule. **Other Information** Colors in photos may vary due to differences in screen displays. Customization services, including engraving, are currently unavailable.