The simplest way for patina to develop is through use. Handling your leather wallet is the easiest way to make your mark on it. It’s a long-term process that will show over time.
Scratches and scrapes also make up a huge part of the process. Over time these will fade, but make up the overall look, feel and texture of well-worn leather goods.
A number of factors contribute to how patina develops overtime:
- Oils on your hands
- Dust
- Moisture in the air
- Indigo dye from your jeans
- Sunlight
- Scratches, scrapes
Leather is an organic material that soaks up everything in its environment. Even friction from your fingers or the way that you put your credit cards inside your wallet add to the unique character and patina.
Over time a soft sheen will eventually develop. Lighter colored leathers will darken up more dramatically, while darker leathers may be more subtle. Deep scratches or dents will smooth over and slowly fade away. Wrinkles where folds form become more pronounced.
