Since a leather wallet is something you use every day, you want to use one that you really like, with particular attention paid to design and comfort.
However, it seems that specialized knowledge is required, such as about the types of leather and how to care for them, which may make many people hesitant to purchase one or feel unsure about how to use it.
"I want to find the perfect wallet for me." "I want to find a wallet that I can use for a long time in beautiful condition."
This time, we at Munekawa will carefully answer each and every one of your frequently asked questions .
We have compiled a step-by-step Q&A about leather wallets, from how to choose one before purchasing to daily care and how to deal with problems if they occur, so please feel free to use it as a reference.
Q&A about "purchasing" a leather wallet
First, let's start with some frequently asked questions before purchasing. We will answer any questions you may have about leather when choosing a wallet .
Q1. There are so many types of leather that I don't know the differences. What are the characteristics of the most common leathers?
A. There are many different types of leather used for leather wallets, but it's easiest to think of them as roughly divided into the following three types.
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Vegetable tanned leather
Leather that is tanned slowly over time using tannins derived from plants. Buttero, bridle, cordovan, and other leathers are also made using the vegetable tanning method.
The biggest feature of this leather is its aging. It is a little stiff when you first start using it, but as you continue to use it, the leather will gradually soften and gain more luster and color. It is recommended for those who want to enjoy watching leather change over time .
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Chrome-tanned leather
This is a method of tanning leather using a chemical called basic chromium sulfate. It is a modern leather material that is light, flexible, and highly water-resistant. Munekawa also uses it for our embossed leather "JOY" and shrink leather. Maintenance is as easy as wiping it with a dry cloth and applying a thin layer of cream about once a year. It does not age as much as vegetable tanned leather, but it is easy to handle and is recommended for those who want to enjoy leather easily .
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Other rare leathers
Other leather materials include exotic leathers such as crocodile, lizard, and ostrich, as well as suede. Exotic leather is one of the most popular leathers. It is a popular leather material with high fiber density and excellent durability, and even after 10 years of long-term use, the luster increases. Its moist texture and warmth are its charms. However, Because it easily absorbs water and dirt, it is important to regularly care for it using a waterproof spray and a special brush.
Each has its own unique personality and charm, so please take a look and imagine which leather suits your preferences and purposes.
Q2. Is it safe if it says "genuine leather"? How can you tell if it's good quality leather?
A. The term "genuine leather" covers a wide range of categories and does not guarantee quality.
Among the items labeled "genuine leather" are It includes both cheap processed leather and high quality leather, so it's difficult to generalize. To distinguish whether a leather is good or not, pay attention to the following two points.
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The fine grain of the silver surface
Look closely at the grain side of the leather. Natural grain (wrinkle patterns) derived from animal skin and small, uniform pores are signs of high-quality leather.
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Edge (cut surface) processing
The finish of the edge of the leather, which is the cut surface, is also an important part that shows the craftsman's skill. Make sure that it is carefully polished and smooth. Items with beautifully finished edges are often made with high quality overall.
Q3. What are the points to consider when choosing a leather wallet as a gift?
A. When choosing a leather wallet as a gift, it is important to imagine the recipient's lifestyle.
Paying special attention to the following three points will make it easier to find the perfect wallet that will please the recipient.
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Choose the shape that suits your lifestyle
The other person's clothing and lifestyle can give you hints on choosing a wallet.
If you often carry your wallet in the inside pocket of your suit, a thin long wallet would be a good choice, while if you wear casual clothes and don't carry a bag, a bi-fold wallet would be a good choice.
Recently, the number of people moving away from cash has increased, and compact mini wallets are popular among both men and women. By choosing a shape that matches the recipient's lifestyle, it will be easier for them to feel that it is easy to use.
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Consider the "storage capacity" according to your belongings
Casually observe how much cash and cards your partner usually carries. If they carry a lot of cards, choose a wallet with plenty of card pockets. If they use a lot of coins, choose a wallet with a wide gusset and a coin case that is easy to see. These are points that will make them feel that you understand them well. If you choose a wallet with storage capacity that matches the amount of things you carry, it will also be very practical.
Q&A about "starting to use" a leather wallet
When you get your favorite wallet, you want to use it right away. Here we will answer some common questions you may have when you first get your new leather wallet .
Q4. There is white powder on the surface of my wallet...is this mold?
A. The white powder is often what is called " bloom ", which is wax and oil that has soaked into the leather and rises to the surface.
This phenomenon is particularly seen in leathers that are rich in wax, such as bridle leather, and is proof that the leather is of high quality.
Mold appears as green or black spots and has a distinctive moldy smell. Bloom, on the other hand, is an evenly distributed white powder with a characteristic leather or waxy smell. You can tell the difference by appearance and smell, so take your time to check.
By the way, if mold does appear, it needs to be dealt with as soon as possible.
Wipe it off with a leather cleaner that does not contain alcohol, then dry it in the shade. If the mold or odor cannot be removed, we recommend consulting a professional cleaner.
▶︎Related article: 5 common misconceptions about caring for leather products and the correct way to care for them
Q5. Is there any care required for a new leather wallet before I start using it?
A. High-quality leather wallets contain sufficient oils and waxes during the manufacturing process, so they generally do not require any special care immediately after purchase. First, start using it as is and enjoy the rich texture of the leather.
However, even if the product is unused, the storage period and condition of the product will vary from item to item, so if you perform some "pre-care" before first using the product, you can start using it in better condition.
There are leather brands, including Munekawa, that offer pre-care services after purchase, so if you want to enjoy the aging of your wallet and continue to use it carefully, be sure to check them out.
▶︎ For more information about Munekawa's pre-care, click here
Q&A about "daily use" of leather wallets
Because it is something you use every day, even small differences can have a big impact on how comfortable it is to use. Here, we will introduce you to some knowledge about the structure of leather wallets that will be useful in your daily life , as well as some tips on how to use them .
Q6. How does the everyday usability of a wallet change depending on whether the interior is made of leather or cloth?
A. The thickness, weight, and durability of a wallet will vary depending on the lining material inside.
Wallets that are made from leather on the inside have a sense of weight and luxury when you hold them in your hand. They also have the advantage of being more durable and can be used for a longer period of time. On the other hand, wallets with fabric linings are characterized by being lighter than leather.
Both full leather and fabric have their own characteristics. The key to choosing is whether you want robustness and a luxurious feel or lightness .
Many leather brands are constantly making improvements, using leather on the inside to create a lightweight finish, or coming up with ways to increase the strength of cloth linings.
If you choose a wallet with this perspective in mind, you will be able to appreciate the depth of leather products, which will be fun.
▶︎Reference article: Special page "Munekawa's Craftsmanship"
Q7. How does the way you close your wallet affect its usability?
A. The way a wallet opens and closes is an important point to consider when choosing a wallet, as it affects ease of use, ease of use, and safety.
Each has the following characteristics:
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Open type without metal fittings
Since there is no fastener, it can be opened and closed very quickly. Its maneuverability allows you to quickly take out bills and cards in front of the register. However, there is a risk that the contents may fly out if it gets caught on something in your bag.
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Hook and button closure
It takes some effort to fasten the button, but it gives you peace of mind because you don't have to worry about the wallet accidentally opening and spilling out. Many wallets also have a button fastening on the coin purse, which is effective in preventing coins from flying out.
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fastener
This type has the highest airtightness of the three. The contents cannot be seen from the outside, and the contents will not spill out even if the wallet is dropped. However, since you basically need both hands to open and close the zipper, it can be a bit of a hassle when paying at the cash register. Also, wallets with round zippers tend to be thicker.
Keep in mind the features of each and choose which one best suits your lifestyle.
▶︎ See the full list of Munekawa wallets here
Q&A regarding repairs, problems and aging of leather wallets
The charm of leather products is that the longer you use them, the more you grow to love them. In the final chapter, we will answer the questions you need to know to use your leather wallet for a long time , and what to do if any trouble occurs .
Q8. If the zipper breaks or the threads come loose, can it be repaired?
A. Yes, leather wallets can be repaired part by part.
Many leather goods manufacturers and repair shops offer various repair services such as replacing zippers, re-stitching, replacing metal fittings, etc. Even if you have an item that you love but it's broken, don't give up as in most cases it can be repaired beautifully.
If it is a product from a reliable manufacturer, you can continue to use it for decades with repeated repairs. By repairing and continuing to use the same wallet with care, you will become more attached to it and it will become an inseparable item.
We also undertake various repairs for Munekawa products that you use at Munekawa, so please feel free to contact us at any time if you have any problems.
▶︎ For more information about Munekawa's "repairs," click here
Q9. What should I do if my leather wallet gets wet due to rain or other reasons?
A. Moisture is the biggest enemy of leather. Don't panic and take action quickly.
Leaving it wet can cause stains, deformation, and in some cases mold.
If your wallet gets wet from rain or drinks, remove the contents and gently pat the wet areas with a dry, soft cloth to absorb the water. Do not scrub the wallet as this will damage the leather.
Once some of the moisture has been removed, dry it in the shade in a well-ventilated place. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or using hot air from a hair dryer, as this can have a negative effect on the leather, causing it to shrink or harden. Let it air dry slowly.
Once it has completely dried, the oil will have been removed from the leather and it will be left in a flaky state.
Apply a thin layer of leather moisturizing cream to nourish the leather.
If you take proper care of the above, you should be able to keep water stains to a minimum. Please remember that if your item does get wet, it is important to take care of it promptly.
▶︎Related article: "Water stains and scratches on leather"
Q10. What is the commonly heard term "aging"?
A. Aging refers to the change in color, luster and texture of leather over time.
With use, the oils from your hands become absorbed into the leather, and with the added effects of sunlight and friction, the color deepens and the leather acquires a glossy finish. A new product is not perfect, and the greatest appeal of leather products is that they develop a unique texture that is unique to the owner through continued use .
These changes are the process of making a leather wallet "your own," and are what fascinates many leather lovers.
Vegetable tanned leather in particular ages easily, and as you continue to use it, it will become more comfortable and turn into a wallet that is unique to you. Enjoy watching it change over time, and take your time to let it grow.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
What did you think?
As long as you keep the important points in mind, working with leather is not difficult at all. Having the right knowledge will not only ease your worries, but also deepen your attachment to your products.
I hope this article will help clear up any doubts or concerns you may have when choosing a wallet.
At Munekawa, we value not only "creating products that can be used for a long time and that customers can continue to use with affection," but also creating a store where we can help customers resolve any questions or concerns they may have about using leather .
If you have any questions or concerns about leather, please feel free to contact us.
▶︎ Munekawa's official store is here
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