The Art of Leather Craftsmanship at Van Velze & Smith

At Van Velze & Smith, leather craftsmanship is not just a skill—it’s an art form. Every piece that comes out of our workshop is a testament to meticulous handiwork, an unwavering commitment to quality, and a reverence for traditional techniques blended with contemporary designs. From sourcing the finest materials to applying time-honoured techniques, our artisans bring their dedication and expertise to create leather goods that are both timeless and uniquely beautiful. Today, we’re diving into the craftsmanship behind our pieces and highlighting the allure of our women’s Sterk range and men’s Harlestone range.

A Journey Through Material Selection

The creation of our leather goods begins with a crucial step: selecting the right leather. Van Velze & Smith sources only the finest full-grain leather, ensuring our products stand the test of time. Full-grain leather is the highest quality available, as it retains the entire grain of the hide, providing durability and a natural character that develops a beautiful patina over time.

Our choice of leather isn’t just about durability; it’s also about sustainability. We believe in creating pieces that are not disposable but, rather, designed to last and even improve with age. The natural beauty and longevity of full-grain leather align with our values, allowing us to offer customers products that are both luxurious and responsible.

The Techniques that Bring Each Piece to Life

Leather craftsmanship is an intricate process involving both traditional techniques and modern touches. Each piece of Van Velze & Smith leather undergoes hand-cutting, where our artisans skilfully shape the leather to optimise its natural characteristics. This approach allows us to maintain the integrity of each hide, celebrating its unique qualities.

Our stitching techniques are equally deliberate. While machine stitching is commonly used in mass production, our craftsmen often rely on hand stitching, especially for detailed sections. Hand stitching not only enhances the durability of our products but also adds a personal touch—each stitch tells a story of human skill and dedication. The edges are meticulously burnished, ensuring smoothness and strength, while leather oils and balms are applied to enhance the material’s resilience and sheen.

The Women’s Sterk Range: Power and Grace

Our Sterk range is designed for the modern woman who values both elegance and strength. The name ‘Sterk’, meaning ‘strong’ in Dutch, reflects the essence of this range. Each item is crafted to be both functional and stylish, appealing to women who appreciate quality craftsmanship without sacrificing aesthetics.

Each boot is a study in minimalist design, allowing the quality of the leather and the craftsmanship to shine. The collection’s clean lines and timeless appeal make it perfect for both day-to-day use and special occasions, embodying a blend of power and grace that is quintessentially Van Velze & Smith.

The Men’s Harlestone Range: Heritage and Modernity Combined

The Harlestone range is named after a village steeped in history, much like the craft techniques we use to bring this collection to life. Designed with the modern gentleman in mind, Harlestone offers a range of colours from Black suede, Tobacco suede, Chocolate suede, Bronze, Cognac to Brandy leather . The boots in this collection are versatile and durable, suitable for the demands of both city life and travel.

Harlestone’s designs are inspired by classic British leatherwork but infused with modern functionality, such as secure compartments and practical fastenings. Every product is designed to age gracefully, with the leather softening and developing character over time, adding a unique narrative to each piece.

The Artisans Behind the Craft

Our artisans are at the heart of Van Velze & Smith, with each piece reflecting their passion and expertise. These craftsmen have honed their skills over years, learning the nuances of leather and the techniques that elevate our products. From the hand-cutting of the leather to the final polish, they approach each step with a dedication to quality that cannot be replicated by machines.

A Legacy of Quality

When you purchase a piece from Van Velze & Smith, whether from the Sterk or Harlestone range, you’re investing in more than just a product; you’re investing in a piece of craftsmanship, a work of art designed to last a lifetime. Each piece tells a story of artisan skill, respect for tradition, and a commitment to creating leather goods that are as unique as the individuals who carry them.