What is oil wax leather? The role of oil and wax and how to choose to enjoy the shade of leather

If you bend the leather a little, the color will appear brighter in that area. Even though it's new, it's not too uniform, and it looks different depending on the angle you hold it. Leather made with oil and wax has such an interesting quality.

On the other hand, when you see the names like oil leather, waxed leather, and oil waxed leather, you may wonder what the differences are. First, let's separate the types of raw materials and processing names, and then look at texture and care.

Oil wax leather is a name for leather that makes use of oil and wax.

The product description "oil wax leather" is used to refer to leather that has a texture created by oil or wax. However, since the name alone does not specify the raw material animal, composition, or tanning method, it is best not to think that the material is made using the same manufacturing method.

The Japan Leather Industry Federation's glossary defines oil leather as a general term for leather that contains more oil than regular leather. It explains how to use a drum for fatliquing and how to apply oil to the leather after drying, which can be distinguished from simply applying cream to the finished product. [1]

Check the ingredients to see if it is genuine leather, and check the finish description to find out what it looks like. By separating these two, you can see the product without relying only on the attractive name.

Oil and wax do not have the same role

The oil used in leather manufacturing is one of the elements that adjusts the texture of the leather. Wax is also used as a finishing and care agent, but the glossary explains its use for adjusting the texture and adding shine to a surface. [1] [2]

There are different categories of waxes, such as plant-based, animal-based, petroleum-based, and synthetic, and this does not mean only beeswax. It is important not to make assumptions about the blending ratio or the proportion of natural ingredients based on the statement “uses wax.” [2]

What buyers need to do is not memorize the ingredient list, but rather check the characteristics of the product when used, such as whether it is soft, has less shine, and whether it is easy to shade.

"Pull-up" that changes color when bent

When leather that has been soaked with oil or wax is bent or pressed from the back, there is a finish that shows shading on the surface. This is a pull-up finish, which is a process that creates expression through the movement of the leather. [3]

The outline of the bag will look a little different if there is light or darkness in places where there is movement, such as the folds of the flap, the handle, or the parts that follow the shape of the bag. The direction you choose will depend on whether you like a uniform color or whether you like variations like this.

However, adjusting the shades and repairing the scratches are two different things. Deep scratches, peeling, and tears cannot be repaired by rubbing, and there is no need to bend them hard or scratch them with your fingernails to check the texture.

crazy horse leatheris not horsehide

The Crazy Horse Leather introduced at cowmono is cowhide leather made with oil and wax. Please do not assume that the name "Horse" means horse leather; please check the material section of the product.

Crazy Horse Leather and Oil Wax Leather have something in common that you can enjoy the texture and shade, but they do not all have the same finish or quality. For more detailed material characteristics,What is crazy horse leather?We also introduce

What you need to know for everyday use

Even if there is oil, do not leave it wet from the rain.

The waterproof performance and duration cannot be determined just by using oil or wax. Apart from the difficulty of soaking into the leather, also consider the possibility of water entering through the openings and seams of the bag, so if it gets wet, remove the moisture as soon as possible.

Consider the appearance of leather and color transfer to clothing separately.

When pairing with light-colored shirts or pants, be careful of color staining due to friction, rain, or sweat. In particular, the back and straps are the parts that keep in contact with clothing, so read the product information and consider combinations when you first start using them.

Increasing care does not necessarily mean that it will look better quickly.

Rather than adding oil over and over again immediately after purchase, it is better to know the condition of the leather first. Depending on the care, your desired look may differ, such as the color becoming darker or the gloss changing.

When using a product, check the materials and exclusions, try a small amount on an inconspicuous area, and wait until it dries. Nippon Leather Market also explains that care needs to be taken not only for the material but also for the construction of the product. [4] [5]

Two ways to enjoy it, choose from the area of the leather and how you hold it

Bags that make the leather look bigger and accessories that can be incorporated as part of your outfit. Even if the material is attractive, if you choose it according to your belongings, you can easily incorporate it into your everyday use.

Shoulder bag for work and holidays_N

Crazy horse leather shoulder bag_N

A shoulder bag with a wide body that allows you to enjoy the shades of leather. There is a partition for a PC on the inside, and you can choose from two sizes, S and L, depending on the amount of luggage.

S is approximately 36 x 14 x 26 cm, L is approximately 40 x 15 x 29 cm. We also recommend checking the opening and internal dimensions of the equipment and documents you are storing.

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Waist bag for organizing small items around the waist_L

Crazy horse leather waist back_L

The main storage is a zipper type, and the front has a snap flap pocket. Use the belt loop on the back to make it a great choice for days when you want to carry around without stuffing too many small items into your pockets.

Approximately 20x14x7cm. Please check the actual size of the smartphone including the case, and the compatibility with the belt loop.

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Oil wax leather FAQ

Is more oil higher quality?

Quantity alone does not determine quality. We will judge the hardness, thickness, finish, and construction of the bag to suit the purpose.

Can I apply mink oil?

You can't decide just by the material name. Even for products intended for oiled leather, check the individual finish and suitability to the current conditions

Is the lack of gloss on the surface due to dryness?

It is also possible that the finish is originally less glossy. Compare it with the description and photos when it was new, and don't add oil just for the sake of luster.

How often do you add oil or wax?

There is no common interval for all products. In addition to frequency of use and storage conditions, we will take into account information about bags and supplies.

Is it the same as wax canvas?

it's different. Leather is a material made from tanned animal skin, and canvas is a woven material. Even if both use wax, the care products and methods may not be compatible.

Use the name of the leather as a clue for choosing

Oil wax leather is not a versatile material that is easy to handle in any situation, but rather a leather that you want to choose based on your preference for shade and texture. When you find a shape that interests you, read the explanation of the material and precautions for use to see if it suits your lifestyle.