made by hand
In a world of endless products and companies to buy from, we work hard to create pieces you can feel great about choosing. We put hours of thought into every design to yield the highest quality goods, using meaningful production and quality materials that will stand the test of time.
Every SONHOUSE product is designed and made by hand in our studio. You can learn more here about the materials and processes that go into each piece.
MEASURE TWICE, CUT ONCE.
Attention to detail is the name of our game. Every pattern is drafted by hand, each piece of leather or fabric meticulously cut, each stitch guided to land in the right spot. We don’t just package up a final product to be shipped to you, but a lot of heart and soul as well.
OUR MATERIALS
VEG TAN LEATHER
Also called vegetable tanned, this leather is tanned using naturally occurring compounds, or tannins, from organic materials like tree bark and vegetable matter. It’s the oldest and most traditional form of tanning. We love it because it avoids the use of harmful chemicals.
The long, slow traditional techniques means the leather is a more expensive product - but also outlasts chemically tanned leathers, and continues to soften and develop a beautiful patina as it ages.
This leather is kind to the environment, doesn’t expose its creators to toxic substances, and requires a level of craftsmanship that is rarely seen in today’s world of fast-paced manufacturing by machine.
Since no chemicals are used in the tanning process, vegetable tanned leather starts out very pale in color, and slowly darkens with light exposure and use. The rich color of a well worn bag creates a unique finish to each piece.
Veg tan leather should not be confused with vegan leather, which is not leather at all an often made from toxic synthetics and plastics.
SOLID BRASS HARDWARE
All of the hardware used in our bags is made from solid brass. Over time, the finish will not rub off or rust. Every piece of hardware is attached by hand - sewn in, or using a solid brass rivet. Our zippers are also solid brass YKK, the highest quality available. We feel good knowing the hardware can stand up to daily use, and not degrade in appearance over time.
painted leather
As much as we love a pristine veg tan bag, we can’t deny our love of color. We use paint specifically formulated for leather, so it lasts beautifully and doesn’t crack or rub off with use. All of our final hues are custom mixed for a totally unique product.
endless ideas, two hands
SONHOUSE is the design child of Laura Shope. Sewing and building things since the age of 3, Laura has been professionally exploring the design industry for 30 years. After careers in graphic design, branding, and interiors, it was building her own original designs from the ground up that stuck and turned into a business in 2014. All SONHOUSE products are designed and made by Laura, with the occasional recruitment of help from her family.
OUR FAQS
-
Yes - your leather bag will tolerate getting wet. If it shows water spots, wiping over it with a slightly damp cloth will help it dry out evenly.
-
The paint used on all of our bags is formulated to wear in and become supple along with the leather. It should not rub or flake off.
-
We suggest starting by wiping your bag down with a damp cloth (only water). Most dirt will come off this way. For tougher stains, you can apply a saddle soap, but this can darken your leather slightly.