Hi, I’m Eric.
If you’re reading this, you probably have a bit of a thing for leather. I get it, I’m right there with you. There is something about the smell of a fresh hide and the way it feels under your hands that just hits different. Maybe you're tired of "fast fashion" bags that fall apart after six months of commuting, or maybe you just want something that looks like it actually belongs on an adventure.
Whatever the reason, buying a rustic leather tote is an investment. It’s not just a bag; it’s a companion that’s going to age with you, pick up scars alongside you, and eventually tell your story. But before you pull the trigger, there are a few things you should know. I’ve spent a lot of time at my workbench ensuring every stitch is perfect, and I want to share a few secrets from the maker’s perspective.
Here are 10 things you should look for before you buy your next leather carry-all.
1. Not All Leather is Created Equal
The word "leather" gets thrown around a lot, but "Full-Grain" is what you’re really looking for. It’s the top layer of the hide, including all the natural grain and strength. Most mass-produced bags use "genuine leather," which is actually a lower grade that’s been sanded down and painted. Full-grain leather is what gives a rustic tote its soul. It’s durable, it’s honest, and it’s the only kind I use for The Wayfarer’s Tote | Hand-Stitched Leather Carry-all.
2. Hand-Stitched vs. Machine-Stitched
This is a big one. Most bags you buy in a store are machine-stitched. If one thread breaks on a machine stitch, the whole thing can unravel like a cheap sweater. I prefer the "saddle stitch." It’s done by hand with two needles, crossing the thread through every single hole. If a thread happens to break, the other side stays locked in place. It takes longer, a lot longer, but it ensures your bag lasts a lifetime.
3. Look at the Edges
When you’re shopping, check the edges of the straps and the bag’s opening. Are they raw and fuzzy, or are they smooth and finished? A quality rustic tote should have beveled and burnished edges. This means the maker took the time to round off the sharp corners and rub them smooth (usually with a bit of beeswax or wood). It’s a small detail that makes a huge difference in how the bag feels against your skin and how well it resists fraying over time.
4. Hardware Should Be Solid
I’ve seen too many beautiful bags ruined by cheap, "mystery metal" hardware. Look for solid brass or high-quality copper rivets. These aren't just for show; they reinforce the stress points where the handles meet the body. If the hardware looks like it might snap or peel, it probably will. I like using antique brass closures because they have a timeless look that only gets better as they get banged around.
5. Embrace the Natural Marks
A truly rustic bag isn't going to be "perfect" in the way a plastic bag is. You might see a small scar from a barb-wire fence or a wrinkle where the hide moved. I love these marks. They are proof that the material came from a real animal and wasn't whipped up in a lab. If you want something that looks identical to every other bag on the shelf, rustic might not be for you. But if you want a piece that’s unique and made with love, lean into those imperfections.
6. The "Sweet Spot" for Weight
Leather thickness is measured in ounces. For a tote that’s going to carry your life, laptop, journals, maybe a cold bottle of soda, you want something in the 4–6 oz range. Anything thinner feels flimsy; anything thicker gets too heavy to carry all day. A well-made tote should feel substantial without making you feel like you’re hauling around a sack of bricks.
7. Interior Organization Matters
A rustic tote is often just a big open bucket, which is great for space but terrible for finding your keys. Look for a design that considers your daily carry. When I designed The Wayfarer’s Tote, I made sure to include a dedicated key strap and a pocket perfectly sized for a journal, like The Chronicler’s Cover | Burgundy Leather Journal Sleeve. Being organized shouldn't mean sacrificing that rugged look.
8. Patina is the Prize
One of my favorite things is when a customer sends me a photo of their bag a year after they bought it. The leather will darken, soften, and develop a "patina", a natural sheen that comes from the oils in your hands and exposure to the elements. This is the hallmark of a high-quality hide. If your bag looks exactly the same after two years, it’s probably not real leather.
9. The Scent and the Feel
There is a specific "warmth" to good leather. It shouldn't feel like plastic or have a chemical, factory-like smell. It should smell like... well, leather. It should feel dense and slightly oily (in a good way) to the touch. If you’re buying in person: like at a local market: don't be afraid to pick it up and really feel the texture.
10. Know the Maker
In a world of mass production, there’s something special about knowing exactly who made your bag. I take a lot of pride in creating items one step at a time right here in my shop. When you buy from an artisan, you’re not just getting a product; you’re getting a piece of their story and a guarantee that they stand behind their work. If you have a question about how to care for your leather, you can just ask!
Why I Made The Wayfarer’s Tote
I created The Wayfarer’s Tote | Hand-Stitched Leather Carry-all because I wanted a bag that could transition from a morning at the market to an afternoon exploring a trail. It has a structured silhouette that’s tough as nails but softens up beautifully with use. Every single one is hand-stitched with reinforced handles, because I want you to be able to hand this bag down to your kids one day.
Choosing the right tote is about finding that balance between function and refined carry. It’s about picking something that inspires a little bit of adventure every time you pick it up.
If you’re looking for more tips on spotting real quality, you might want to check out my post on the 7 mistakes people make when buying handmade leather.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and for supporting small-scale craftsmanship. It really means the world to me. If you have any questions about leather care or what goes into my process, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to talk shop!
Stay adventurous,
Eric