Bag materials and manufacturing
Timeless and unique Utua bag
At Utua, we don't design fashion, but timeless classics – alternatives to slow consumption. The practical design of Utua bags, the world's best leather, high-quality sewing and easy repairability guarantee that a well-cared for and lovingly cared for Utua bag will last for years, even decades.
Each Utua bag is designed in Finland and manufactured in high-quality atelier-level craftsmanship in Europe. Every detail – from the seam to the buckle – is carefully considered and finished to ensure that the end result is both beautiful and practical.
Zero waste
Utua leather bags are cut and sewn in small leather workshops in Greece and Italy. Our seamstresses are skilled artisans with extensive experience in leather working and an eye for perfect finishing.
We consider material efficiency, lifespan optimization, and product repairability right from the design stage of our bags. This ensures that the production of our bags has the least possible impact on the environment and that every piece of leather used has meaning.
In the production of Utua bags, leather is utilized as efficiently as possible. The pieces left over from the production of larger bags are used to create smaller bags, wallets and key rings. This way, each hide is used almost completely and waste is minimized.
Leather is a natural product
Leather is a genuine natural product that breathes, is durable and becomes more beautiful with use. Vegetable tanned leather in particular has unique properties that make each hide vibrant and unique.
The leather used by Utua is mainly produced as a by-product of food production in the Nordic countries. The strict animal welfare legislation in the Nordic countries guarantees good living conditions for the animals and high-quality, ethically acceptable raw materials.
The leather is manufactured in Italy in a factory that is among the most responsible in the industry. The use of water and chemicals is minimized, and a closed water system is used, so that no process water is discharged into the environment. Several of the tanneries we use are Leather Working Group (LWG) certified, ensuring transparent and responsible practices.
Vegetable tanned leather
Our selection includes leather tanned with biodegradable vegetable oils, which is a more ecological alternative to chrome tanning. The leather is tanned with natural substances – vegetable oils and tannins obtained from trees – without harmful chemicals. The process does not burden water bodies at all.
The vegetable tanned leather we use is also hand dyed, which gives the hide a beautiful vibrancy and depth. Each hide is unique, and over time its surface will develop a precious patina, telling the story of its wearer.
Marsupial skin
The marten leather we use is a finely finished cowhide, the surface of which has been lightly sanded and grained – i.e. mechanically treated, creating a scaly pattern on the surface. This makes the surface extremely durable for everyday use.
Martian leather is particularly popular for work bags and shoulder bags, as it repels dirt and moisture while maintaining the look and feel of genuine leather. It feels soft in the hand and molds to the style and habits of its wearer over time.
Nappa leather
Nappa leather is a smooth, extra-soft leather known for its luxurious texture and natural shine. It is made from the top layer of the hide, which is the finest and strongest part of the hide.
Nappa leather is perfect for bags that need to be lightweight, supple and stylishly finished. Its natural elasticity makes it ideal for a material that can withstand use without losing its shape.
The nappa leather used by Utua is produced in the same European tanneries as our other leathers – in accordance with strict environmental and sustainability standards. It is a soft and breathable material that retains its luxurious feel year after year.
Sustainable craftsmanship
Every step of Utua bags – design, cutting, sewing and finishing – is done with love and respect for the material. When combined with proper care and regular cleaning, the bag will serve faithfully for years and even be passed down from generation to generation.
