The Essence of Our Leather
At Yilra, we make leather bags and accessories for long-term use. Each piece is crafted from carefully selected leather and sturdy components. With regular wear, the surface can develop a natural patina and marks—creating a look that reflects your everyday experiences and travels.
Introducing
Leather That Ages With You
Carefully selected full-grain leather and sturdy components for years of everyday carry and a look that gains character.
Full-Grain Vegetable-Tanned Leather
At Yilra, our bags and accessories are made from full-grain, vegetable-tanned cowhide (Vachetta leather). The hides are hand-dyed and finished with plant-based tannins in a slow tanning process that keeps the natural grain visible. Because the leather isn’t heavily sanded and the color is applied by hand, each piece shows small variations in shade and markings—so no two items are exactly alike.
Unique Characteristics
Our vegetable-tanned, hand-dyed full-grain leather keeps its natural grain, so you may notice subtle veins, slight wrinkles, and small surface marks. These are normal features of genuine leather and a sign of authenticity—not defects. Because the color is applied by hand, tone and pattern can vary from one item to another.
Vegetable tanning also gives the leather a natural, earthy scent. With regular use, the surface may develop a patina and show signs of your daily life. Over time, these marks can make your Yilra bag uniquely yours, reflecting the journeys you’ve shared.
Vegetable-Tanned. Hand-Dyed.
Natural veins and tone changes are normal features of genuine leather—not defects—and deepen with use.
Leather Care
Moisturize
With time and handling, leather can lose some of its natural oils, which may lead to dryness or fine wrinkles. To keep it supple, condition every 1–2 months (adjust for climate and use) with a quality leather balm made from natural waxes and oils (e.g., beeswax, jojoba oil, avocado oil).
- Spot-test on a hidden area.
- Apply a small amount with a soft cloth or sponge in light, even circles.
- Let it absorb; wipe off any excess with a clean cloth, some Yilra bags may arrive with a light protective finish; re-condition as needed over time.
- Avoid Water
Water can pull natural oils from leather and cause discoloration or wrinkles. A balm that includes beeswax can help repel light moisture, but it’s best to avoid heavy rain. If your bag gets wet:
- Do not force-dry with heat or direct sun.
- Blot gently with a dry cloth and air-dry at room temperature.
- While drying, support the shape (e.g., loosely stuff with clean paper) and allow it to dry fully before use or conditioning.
Condition every 1–2 months
Leather Care Essentials
Condition every 1–2 months with a quality leather balm (beeswax, jojoba, avocado). Spot-test first, apply lightly in circles, wipe off excess, and let air-dry. Avoid heavy rain; if your bag gets wet, blot and support the shape while drying.
