Working folks have used office accessories for centuries to make workflow more productive, but standard-issue plastic and fabric could be more inspiring and comfortable. I will discuss leather office accessories, which could make the perfect addition to your desk and office.
Leather office accessories are items used to make work more efficient, from mousepads and portfolios to messenger bags and briefcases. While office accessories have been making workplaces more productive since 3700 BC, the use of leather office accessories wasn’t incorporated until the 1980s.
Are you looking for the perfect office accessories for that special someone with an exquisite taste? Do you need a new desk pad or mouse pad but don’t want the standard vinyl? Let’s check out the cost, care, and benefits of leather office accessories and how they can add style to any workspace.
What are Leather Office Accessories
Leather office accessories are items that are used to support work and creativity. This goes beyond the staple elements of a work environment, like office furniture and other large items.
Leather office accessories include card holders, briefcases, messenger bags, desk pads, and any leather items that make working in an office more productive. These work items can be a durable and fashionable alternative to cheaper plastic office accessories.
History of Leather Office Accessories
The history of office accessories dates back to around 3700 BC when people started writing on flat rock tablets. Paper writing came about in the 2nd century, and the quill appeared in the 6th century. The pencil was invented in 1564, and the stapler in the 18th century.
Paperweights and letter openers made their way in the 19th century, and desk blotters in 1856. Leather versions of these office accessories started popping up in the 1970s-1980s, with new additions around the mid-1990s.
Check out this helpful video of a leather craftsman making a leather desk pad!
Types/Styles of Leather Office Accessories
Leather Messenger Bag
A leather messenger bag is a stylish bag for commuting workers. They’re small and easy to carry, can hold a laptop and your important papers, and stay in place while cycling or perusing the local coffee shop. These usually have an adjustable shoulder strap and an oversized flap to secure contents inside. Available in several different colors as well.
Leather Card Holder
A leather card holder is a slim and classy way to hold your business cards. These come with multiple slots for credit cards, so you could even use one as your primary wallet. Leather card holders are smooth and soft, making it easy to slide cards in and out and inconspicuous in any pocket. Leather card holders can come in many different shades.
Leather Portfolio
A leather portfolio is a must for any business person who takes notes at meetings. These portfolios will hold a legal-size notepad, several pens, business cards, important papers, and sometimes a tablet or netbook. They can be customized with leather tooling and snapped or zippered shut. Many colors are available, from browns to bright and bold colors.
Leather Briefcase
A leather briefcase is a classic choice for anyone in business. They’ve come a long way since the 1970s with better design, more compact, and all the pockets and straps you need for your laptop, office supplies, and important documents. Leather briefcases come in a few classic colors.
Leather Journal
A leather journal is a super classy way to jot down notes, write down thoughts, or doodle advertisement ideas. These beautifully designed covers have a flap to keep pages contained and a snap, tie, or wrap to keep the journal closed while not in use. A leather journal can come in several colors to help keep you organized and stylish.
Leather Folder
A leather journal is a classy way to jot down notes, write down thoughts, or doodle advertisement ideas. These beautifully designed covers have a flap to secure pages and a snap, tie, or wrap to keep the journal closed while not in use. With many colors and designs, a leather journal keeps you prepared at all times and is stylish.
Leather Desk Pad
A leather desk pad is an elegant touch to any desk. It is designed as a working surface for writing, laptop placement, keyboard holder, and mouse gliding while preventing pens from rolling off the desk. A leather desk pad is generally available in classic colors, protects the desk surface, and is usually anti-slip.
Leather Mouse Pad
A leather mouse pad is a soft and supple way to guide your mouse. It’s an elegant look for any desk and ages better than any standard mousepad. Leather mouse pads can even be tooled with your initials or business emblem. Standard leather colors are generally available.
Pros and Cons of Using Leather Office Accessories
Pros of Leather Office Accessories
Leather office accessories are much more durable and of higher quality than other materials that are commonly used, including wood and plastic. Leather ages better and is versatile, attractive, luxurious, and comfortable to the touch.
Leather office accessories will last for many more years than standard office accessories. According to graduate student Minke Brager of the University of Twente, even minimalist materials like leather, wood, and other natural materials can affect creativity, mood, and productivity in a work setting.
Cons of Leather Office Accessories
Leather office accessories can react to temperature fluctuations, with fading and cracking being typical. In particular, direct sunlight can cause the leather to fade and crack. Leather office accessories will also cost more than standard ones; however, they are dependable and can last much longer than plastic alternatives.
Leather office accessories can last for 30 years or more.
Characteristics of Leather Office Accessories
Material
Leather office accessories are made with animal hides, including cows, sheep, alligators, and more. Sometimes faux leather is used, which consists of non-animal products like plant parts or plastic. Other materials include plastic, metal, wood, and other fabrics.
Sizes
Leather office accessories are available in many sizes, from leather card holders to portfolios and messenger bags; there are many distinctions in size.
Variations
Multiple variations of leather office accessories are available within each category for different animal hides and colors. Some variations of leather office accessories include:
- Leather card holders
- Portfolios
- Journals
- Desk
- Mousepads
- Journals
- Folders
How Leather Office Accessories Are Made
Genuine leather office accessories are made with animal hides that have been tanned with chrome salts or vegetable tanning agents. The tanning process removes hair, preserves the leather, and makes the leather durable.
The leather is then processed to remove defects and trim the material, inspected, and tanned again. After the second tanning, the leather is stretched and ironed for sheen, cut into shapes for office accessories, stitched, and manufactured into sellable products.
Costs of Leather Office Accessories
Costs of leather office accessories depend on size, style, amount of leather, and brand. The larger the item and the more leather used, the higher the price, and vice versa. Let’s look at a few examples:
- A leather desk pad from Amazon is about $4.75 (plus $5.99 delivery), while a similar product from SumenvadisiLeather costs around $1,299 on Etsy.
- A leather mouse pad from AliExpress is very affordable at $2.89 while the same from ImprintItems will set you back $2,250.
- A leather messenger bag from Poshmark costs about $18, and a similar item from Lucrin costs $1,100.
Tips for Choosing Leather Office Accessories
Leather office accessories are plentiful, and choosing the right one can be challenging if you haven’t done it before. To save money in the long run and choose easily, here are some tips to guide you:
- Opt for genuine leather products of the highest quality. These will cost more, but they’ll last the longest.
- Consider the product’s consistency in color and finish. Uniformity means high-quality production, which means better quality.
- Feel the leather with your hands. Your hands (or potentially someone else’s) will be handling the product regularly, so it should feel soft and smooth. Comfort in use is key when choosing leather office accessories.
The Top Five Manufacturers of Leather Office Accessories
Considering all leather manufacturers, how do you choose the best leather products? Here are the top five leather office accessory makers to help narrow it down.
- Leatherology – rated five out of five by users and offers many categories of leather products, including office accessories, personalization, and gift boxing.
- Dacasso – specializes in executive leather office accessories and offers personal or corporate personalization. Buy the piece or the matching collection for an elegant, highly customer-rated look.
- Harber London – uses full grain leather and creates exclusive quality products, from office accessories to bags. They offer worldwide shipping, one year warranties, and free shipping.
- Bergdorf Goodman – offers a great line of leather office accessories as individual items or sets. The manufacturer provides personalization and reasonable prices for the finest Italian leather, even with payment plans.
- Moog Desk – offers luxury genuine leather office sets and unique accessories at highly affordable prices. They offer multiple colors, payment plans, and personalization, guaranteeing customer satisfaction.
Leather Office Accessory Care and Maintenance
How to Clean Leather Office Accessories
Leather office accessories can be cleaned using a dry, soft-bristled brush or a microfiber towel. You can also use commercial leather cleaners on non-absorbent leather; just follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid getting the leather too wet to prevent mold and stains. Test cleaners in inconspicuous spots to avoid damaging or fading the leather and condition the leather after cleaning.
How to Maintain Leather Office Accessories
Leather office accessories can be easily maintained through proper use, storage, and cleaning. Protect the leather from direct sunlight, moisture, and anything that can cause stains. Spills should be cleaned immediately, and condition the leather any time you clean and every few months, so the leather continues to look great.
How to Store Leather Office Accessories
Leather office accessories should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use a temperature-controlled spot to prevent drying and cracking of the leather. Clean and condition regularly when not in use to keep the leather in great shape.
Related Insights
How long do leather office accessories last?
Leather office accessories can last 30 years, depending on how often they’re used and cleaned and if they’re properly stored.
Are leather office accessories easy to maintain?
Leather office accessories are easy to maintain with regular cleaning, conditioning, and storage.
Final Thoughts
Work isn’t always fun, but having the right accessories makes it easier. With leather office accessories, those tasks aren’t just easier but pleasant in some cases. Choose leather if you want office accessories that work well and last a long time. Which leather office accessories would work best in your office?
Other Resources:
- Leather Goods – A Look into The Many Types and Benefits
- Leather Messenger Bag – Guide to Options, Types, and Sizes
- Choosing a Leather Card Holder You’ll Love
- A Leather Briefcase Guide from Personal Experience and Use
- Leather Journal – The Key to Finding One You’ll Love
- Leather Folder – Options and Guide for Choosing a Great One
- Leather Desk Pad – Guide to Style and Function For Your Desk