Waterproof Leather for Foul Weather

Pergamena waterproof leatherThis week, while making a purchase with the leather company Pergamena, I was introduced to a new product they will be offering in the coming months. And it’s a good one; Waterproof Leather.

You may remember I wrote about Pergamena in the past but in case you’re new to our little blog here, I will give you a quick recap.  The company supplies quality vegetable-tanned leather that is made from animals who have died of natural causes.  So, if you’re a business that utilizes environmentally and socially responsible raw materials, this is obviously a company you should look into.

OK, back to the waterproof leather.  Apparently, the leather is their same vegetable-tanned formula, with a sprayed on finish that makes the surface almost completely water resistant.  (Do I see a leather raincoat in my future?!) Anyway, the back (non-grain) side of the skin does still absorb some water, but the tannage used prevents discoloration and stains from appearing because of color migration.  The hides can either be dry-drummed, which gives them a very unique, worn texture and softens the skin to the consistency of glove leather, or alternatively they can be left natural from the process, which gives them some stiffness and rigidity. Take your pick.

I don’t know about you, but I find this to be very exciting.  The possibilities are endless and I’m already thinking about how I want to utilize this product in my own work.  And with a 2 week lead time on delivery, I have plenty of time to make up my mind.

Nicole Giordano

Nicole is the founder of StartUp FASHION, an online resource and community supporting for independent designers around the world with building their businesses. A deep love for the craft of fashion paired with an adamant belief that success is defined by the individual, led her to found StartUp FASHION, where she helps independent designers and makers screw the traditional fashion business rules, create their own paths, and build businesses they truly love. More than anything else, she’s in the business of encouragement and works every day to remind makers and designers that they have something special to offer the world and that they can, in fact, do this thing!