Why does leather change over time? Changes in color, gloss, and wrinkles, and how to enjoy your relationship for a long time
Before you know it, the corners of the wallet you pick up every day start to look a little rounded. The handle of the bag has a different shine than when I bought it.
The joy of leather lies in such small changes. Rather than keeping things looking brand new forever, they become accustomed to your lifestyle as you use them every day. This change in color and texture is called ``change over time'' or ``aging'' in leather products.
However, it does not necessarily become more beautiful over time. The appearance varies depending on the finish of the leather, where it is used, and how it is cared for. Enjoying shine and wrinkles and leaving cracks and damage alone should be considered separately.
What changes the look of leather is the material and daily usage.
The appearance of leather products is affected by the dyeing and surface finish. The initial appearance is also different between a finish that uses dye to show the appearance of the leather base and a finish that covers the surface. Just because it says "genuine leather" doesn't mean it will grow to the same color or luster. Terms such as aniline and full grain also describe different characteristics.Terminology reference: Horween Leather Co.
This overlaps with how we use it every day, such as touching it, bending it, and carrying it around. If it's a bag, it's the handle, the flap, and the surface that touches your body. If it's a wallet, it's the folds that open easily and the corners where your fingers rest. Deciding where to compare will make it easier to notice changes than just looking at the overall color.
The important thing is not to assume that things will change uniformly everywhere. It is natural that the expression will look different if you touch it differently. On the other hand, if the discoloration suddenly appears, consider the effects of moisture, dirt, and care products.
Is the color becoming brighter when bent due to aging?
With Crazy Horse leather, the bent areas may appear brighter. This is a temporary color change that occurs due to the movement of oil and wax within the leather, and is a phenomenon called "pull-up."Mechanism reference: Horween Leather Co.
It is easier to understand the color change that occurs on the spot and the texture that remains as a result of continued use when you look at them separately. You don't have to decide that it's aged or the dye has worn off just because it's brightened by bending it.
The characteristics of crazy horse leather handled by cowmono are:“What is Crazy Horse Leather?”I am introducing it with photos.
Changes in texture that can be enjoyed and damage that you want to check
Even if the shade of brown is the same, it is a different story whether it is a texture that you like or a change that you want to check. Don't decide whether something is good or bad based on the color alone; instead, take a look at the surface and the feel of the item.
| Changes I noticed | Things to see |
|---|---|
| The handle and frequently touched areas are shiny. | Can it be used normally without any stickiness or deposits? |
| There are wrinkles where it opens and closes. | Is the surface cracked or is there stress on the seams? |
| The color of the shallow scratches has started to blend in with the surroundings. | Are there any deep cuts or tears? |
| After getting wet with water, a contoured discoloration remained | Possibility of water stains. Do not repeat treatments to match the color. |
| Peeling, deep cracks, and strong stickiness appeared. | Consult with a retailer or specialty store to determine whether it is safe to continue using the product. |
Although small scratches may no longer bother you, it does not mean that the cut leather will be restored to its original state. You should pay more attention to damage in places where weight is applied, such as the handle or the base of the strap, than the appearance.
How many months will it change? If you want to compare, use photos under the same conditions.
There is no common schedule that says "this color in 3 months" or "this gloss in 1 year". The number of times you carry it, the initial color, and the leather finish are different. Just because the changes are mild doesn't mean they're of low quality.
A recommended way to enjoy it is to keep one photo from when you started using it. I sometimes retake the photo at the same location, similar brightness, and from the same angle. If you take a close-up of the handle or folds, you can see the differences that you might have overlooked on a daily basis.
The color of the leather will look different depending on the lighting and exposure of the photo. If you make a quick note of the days you applied cream or got wet in the rain, it will be easier to look back and see what has changed.
Don't rush to grow it, just see how it looks after you use it.
There's no need to keep putting it on the windowsill to make it darker, or layering it with oil to make it shine faster. The goal is to be able to continue using the tools you like without any difficulty.
Every day, I start by removing dust and checking to see if there is any moisture or dirt. If you use cleaners or creams, check the instructions on both the bag and care products. Even if it is "for leather", it cannot be used for all finishes. The key is to test it on an inconspicuous area before use.Care reference: Columbus
If it gets wet in the rain, absorb the moisture with a soft cloth, shape it, and dry it in the shade. Avoid rushing to dry using a hairdryer or heater.Reference when getting wet: Coronil
Apart from the texture of the leather, you also need to be careful about color transfer to clothing. How to handle light-colored clothing or when it is damp from rain or sweat:About color transfer of leather bagsPlease also see.
2 recommended items from cowmono
Why not choose a leather look for bags and wallets that are often touched. Please compare the colors and shapes while thinking about the situation in which you will use them.
Crazy horse leather shoulder bag_G
A shoulder bag that allows you to open the flap and take out your belongings. Please take a look at the photos of the main body and shoulder straps while imagining how you would match them with your everyday clothes.
See photos and specifications →
Crazy horse leather wallet_B
For those who want to enjoy the color and shine of the leather in the wallet they carry every day. You can also check the zipper and internal storage and choose one that fits the cards and accessories you carry.
See photos and specifications →Please check the material, size, color, price, and handling precautions on each product page.
Frequently asked questions
Will the leather always be dark in color?
It doesn't necessarily get darker. Appearance may vary depending on original color, finish, and usage. You may notice a change in the gloss or texture rather than the overall color.
Will it grow beautifully if I don't use it much and keep it away?
The time you store it and the time it takes to get used to it are not the same. Even if it is stored away, you should check its condition from time to time. If you choose a tool to use, try incorporating it into your daily life in situations where it makes sense.
Should we accept all flaws as taste?
There's no need to think that way. I like how shallow scratches look, but deep cracks and tears require checking the condition. If you are concerned, consult a doctor before the damage spreads.
If I apply cream, will my skin age faster?
Although the color and shine may change depending on the application, we do not consider it to be the same as the texture after many years of use. Follow the instructions on the product for care and avoid adding more to change the color.
Is it better to clean it every month?
It cannot be determined by a uniform frequency. The work of removing dust is different from the work of using cleaners and creams. Please follow the recommendations for each product while monitoring the frequency of use and the condition of the leather.
Is crazy horse leather resistant to rain?
You can't judge waterproofness just by the name. Leather that contains oil or wax does not mean that it can be used without worrying about rain. If it gets wet, get it dry as soon as possible and check the precautions for each product.
Choose your favorite texture as a daily tool
There is no one perfect form due to changes over time. Some people like a long-lasting look, while others like to enjoy the signs of use, like discoloration on denim or wrinkles on boots.
What kind of texture suits you? Please choose the look of the leather as well as the shape and size you want to carry.
View Crazy Horse Leather items
Author information
Author name: Yama (Cowmono Owner)
Occupation: Slowth lab representative
Self-introduction: Engaged in sales and marketing for more than a quarter at domestic and overseas apparel companies. He has a deep knowledge of fashion, sports, outdoor activities, and subculture.