Bag FAQs
Bag FAQs
Q. What materials do you use in your bags?
A. We use 15 oz. waxed duck canvas (19 oz. with wax) for most of our bags. Waxed canvas originated in the sailing industry in Scotland in the 1920s and became widely used in sportswear and apparel because of its waterproofing abilities and superb durability.
Q. What leather do you use on your bags?
A. Our leather straps are made from WWII-era gun slings. Their condition varies from unused deadstock to well-worn.
Q. Can I get a longer strap or extra holes in my strap?
A. You can order a longer strap by adding this item to your order. If you would like additional holes in your strap, please include the number and placement in your order notes.
Q. Can I order my bag a little bigger or smaller?
A. Making size alterations to bags is a very complicated process and we do not offer this service.
Q. Why does my bag with antique leather smell a bit odd?
A. When people visit us at the craft shows we attend, we frequently hear how good our booth smells. From Bartram Balm to leather, we use natural cleaning and finishing processes that draw people in. While we think the subtle smell of antique leather and waxed canvas our bags have is quite pleasant, we’ve come to realize it’s not for everybody, much like what we’ve coined “The Cilantro Effect” (check out this NPR story on this polarizing herb). The smell does lessen over time if you’re up for the wait. However, we only accept returns for unused bags, so if smell is too strong, we would be happy to accept it back. Please see our Exchanges and Returns page for more information.
Q. Will my bag fit my computer / tablet / &c.?
A. The dimensions of all of our bags are listed at the bottom of each bag’s page.
Q. How do I clean my bag?
A. Waxed canvas, like leather, does not require cleaning and should not be machine washed, machine dried, or dry cleaned. If necessary, spot-clean your waxed canvas with cold water using a sponge or gentle brush. Store in a dry place to prevent mold and mildew. Waxed canvas will better with age, but may need to be re-waxed in time. We recommend using Martexin Wax.
Q. Where are your bags with reclaimed leather?
A. Our current stockpile of antique leather is coming to an end, and due to the scarcity, the remaining bags finished with reclaimed straps are becoming Some of a Kinds. We are always on the lookout for more reclaimed leather, and we will continue to create small runs of bags as we unearth. Check the Of a Kind section to see what bags with reclaimed leather we may have in stock, and sign up for our email newsletter to be notified as soon as we launch any new small runs!