It was a simple visit to a leather vendor I've visited before. I knew what to expect.
Or so I thought...
I stepped into the showroom of NAT Leathers, a beautifully organized and welcoming office and meeting space, with an exciting stocked shelved section in the rear room. I was warmly greeted by Nick, who was happy to show me the wonderful pieces his space had available.
As eye candy, I share these with you:
If you could touch this, you would consider it "hand candy" as well.
Clearly, I had misunderstood the possibilities of the world of "faux" leather. I remember as a teen, that faux leather was something to be made fun of. Inferior in quality, look, performance, durability, and lifespan, it was considered a cheap imitation of a superior product. It was for "posers". But no longer.
NAT's product range includes high end faux leathers. "How do your faux choices compare to the real thing?" I asked. Nick's answer? They perform as well, if not better, than real leather.
And when it comes to real leathers, there is so much beautiful product in this space, that you will just squeal with delight (as I did) when you see the range of weights, textures, finishes, colors, and softnesses (if that's even a word). It is a wonderful adventure.
So, what's all this leather for? Accessories, clothing, shoes, home dec, upholstery, hospitality... you name it. On trend, budget-friendly, and wonderfully curated color palettes. Custom orders and bulk orders are welcome, as is the small quantity shopper.
Or so I thought...
I stepped into the showroom of NAT Leathers, a beautifully organized and welcoming office and meeting space, with an exciting stocked shelved section in the rear room. I was warmly greeted by Nick, who was happy to show me the wonderful pieces his space had available.
As eye candy, I share these with you:
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| Metallic faux leather |
If you could touch this, you would consider it "hand candy" as well.
Clearly, I had misunderstood the possibilities of the world of "faux" leather. I remember as a teen, that faux leather was something to be made fun of. Inferior in quality, look, performance, durability, and lifespan, it was considered a cheap imitation of a superior product. It was for "posers". But no longer.
NAT's product range includes high end faux leathers. "How do your faux choices compare to the real thing?" I asked. Nick's answer? They perform as well, if not better, than real leather.
And when it comes to real leathers, there is so much beautiful product in this space, that you will just squeal with delight (as I did) when you see the range of weights, textures, finishes, colors, and softnesses (if that's even a word). It is a wonderful adventure.
 |
| A "polka dotted" optical illusion? |
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| Sparkly "disco" leather! |
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| Lots of textural excitement! |
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| Beautiful colors to custom order... |
So, what's all this leather for? Accessories, clothing, shoes, home dec, upholstery, hospitality... you name it. On trend, budget-friendly, and wonderfully curated color palettes. Custom orders and bulk orders are welcome, as is the small quantity shopper.
N.A.T. Leathers
248 West 35th Street Suite #505
New York, NY 10001
Call 212.643.1702 for an appointment to meet with one of the team, or to inquire about bulk pricing.
Did I find a few gems? You bet I did! Then I hightailed it to SIL for leather thread and leather needles, to Manhattan Wardrobe supply for glue, and to Daytona for a special trim. I'm in creative heaven!
Did I find a few gems? You bet I did! Then I hightailed it to SIL for leather thread and leather needles, to Manhattan Wardrobe supply for glue, and to Daytona for a special trim. I'm in creative heaven!
I've spoken at length in the past about shopping for leather in the garment district, sewing with leather, and I have shown you some personal projects I've explored/made. The tools and assistance you need are right there in the district to help get you going (think Botani, Lou Lou, Star Snaps), and, if you are motivated and brave enough, trust me, you can create what your heart desires.
My husband was in the garment district and walked by Lou Lou and went in to get me a card. I'll have to visit next time I'm in. What are you using for leather thread? I have found that polyester top stitching thread for top stitching shreds in leather. I used some nylon upholstery thread, but that's hard to find. I have used just regular Gutterman Mara 100 for construction without an issue. What are you making with your leather? I made a leather motorcycle jacket with Riri zippers quite a while ago now, and it's showing it's age. I have to say that it's probably the most worn outside of my last coat of any thing I've made. I used a two way zipper which is perfect for driving. I may just use the same pattern and make another one, maybe changing some details.
ReplyDeleteI'm doing shoes... and probably other things yet to be detrmined. I just fell in love with colors and textures in there. I have bought leather thread from SIL, but I know you can order great waxed thread from the Tandy Leather website. Lots of choices. I would bet Manhattan wardrobe would be a good resource, too, although I haven't checked! And yes, two-way zippers are fantastic! Love RiRi from Pacific for casual, and Botani when I wanna take it higher end!
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