Architectural Application Examples
A project starts with the client's design criteria. We discuss the leather options that can support the structure, purpose and aesthetics of the project. Leather varies in weight from thin upholstery hides to thick harness leather. As artisans, we understand each hide's specific characteristics and we use these variations to their fullest potential.
Handrail Seam Examples
Choices of seam closures are offered to incorporate elements of the design while providing durability. The preparatory steps on the leather are done in our studio and bought to the site for the final application. All sewing is done by hand. Smaller removable items such as door pulls are shipped directly from our studio.
Seam closure possibilities include:
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Baseball stitch
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Two needle hand stitch
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Spiral wrap
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Whip stitch
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Glued (no stitching)
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Channel wrap
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Custom designs
Handrail Turns and Corners
Corners and turns present unique situations. Some of the solutions are presented below.
Rail Length & Diameter
The leather is normally cut into six to eight foot lengths. When long sections are necessary, the leather lengths are joined together either by skiving and gluing, which renders a nearly imperceivable joint, or by stitching the lengths together, creating a visible focal seam. We have covered rails ranging from five foot elevator handles to multi-story private residences to seventeen continuous floors of commercial office space. In addition to handrails, columns of any diameter can be covered.
Installation
Our installation processes are clean and quiet, only requiring hand tools. Ideally we are the last craftsmen on sight after any and all wall and floor finishings are completed.
Termination Examples
We can follow any design. The variety of finishes include: polished metal end-cap, leather covered end-cap, wall termination or a metal reveal option.
Desk insets, countertops, tabletops and wall panels can be stitched, glued, inset or stretched over a substrate.
Panels
With Decorative machine stitching
Custom Desk Accessories: Made to specific size and style
Maintenance
Most leather ages gracefully and will eventually develop a burnished patina especially on handled areas. A damp cloth is all that is required for occasional wiping. If soiled, a mild soap and clean rinse may be necessary. Do not spot clean, as rubbing will darken the leather. While cleaning, work the entire surface and dry with a soft cloth (Do not rub). Application of a recommended nourishing product can help to protect and preserve the finish. Any application of a finish will change the color and appearance.