Cork Leather and how it is made

Cork leather is produced from the bark from the Cork Oak Tree; a natural, vegan and eco-friendly quality material which is highly durable, waterproof, stain resistant and easy to maintain.

Cork oaks thrive in warm climates and grow naturally in the Mediterranean region of Europe, which produces 80% of the world’s cork.  Cork trees must be at least 25 years old before the bark can be harvested and even then, the harvest can only take place once every 9 years. 

The bark is hand cut in large sheets, by expert ‘extractors’ using traditional cutting methods to ensure that the tree is unharmed. In fact, the removal of sections of the bark stimulates regeneration which extends the life of a tree - a cork oak will produce cork for between two to five hundred years. The cork is air dried for six months, then steamed and boiled, which gives it its characteristic elasticity, and the cork blocks are then cut into thin sheets. A backing fabric is then pressed on the cork sheet which is bonded by suberin, a natural occurring adhesive present in cork. The cork leather can be cut and sewn to create articles traditionally made from leather. Despite its water-resistant qualities, cork leather can be dyed, prior to the application of its backing, 

Our range of cork vegan bags and accessories are ethical, beautiful and sustainable. Cork is an amazing vegan alternative to animal leather which is extremely durable, soft and lightweight.