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The Process of Flydigito
The Handmade Leather Process Behind Flydigito Bags
At Flydigito , our leather bags are handcrafted in Fes by artisans using techniques passed down over generations . From selecting the hides to the stitch , each step reflects leather craftsmanship .
This section explains how our bags are made, helping you understand the process behind each piece and what goes into creating it.
The Leather-Making Process in Fes
The production of leather in Fes follows techniques that have been handed down through generations . The process is labor-intensive , requiring skill and patience :
Sourcing the Hides
Animal hides are sourced from butchers and markets . The hides arrive in their state , covered in blood , hair , and fat .
Cleaning
The hides are soaked in water to remove impurities . They are placed in vats containing a mixture of water and quicklime to loosen the hair and soften the hides .
Tanning
The tanning process uses materials , such as pigeon droppings , which contain ammonia to soften the leather , and bark from mimosa or acacia trees for coloring . This step is crucial in ensuring the flexibility and durability of the leather .
Dyeing
Artisans use dyes to color the leather . Colors include:
Red : Derived from poppy flowers .
Yellow : From saffron or turmeric .
Green : Made using mint or plant-based dyes .
Black : Created from antimony or charcoal .
Drying and Finishing
Once dyed, the leather is stretched and left to dry in the sun . Artisans polish and finish the leather , preparing it for crafting into products .
The Chouara Tannery: Heart of Fes Leather
The Chouara Tannery , located in the heart of the Medina , is the tannery in Morocco and one of the oldest in the world , dating back to the 11th century . It is an experience , with its vats arranged like a palette .
What Makes Chouara Tannery Unique?
Methods : The tannery employs techniques unchanged for centuries , offering a glimpse into the history of Morocco .
Materials : The use of dyes and materials ensures the production of leather .
Significance : The tannery is a site and a part of the Medina , drawing visitors from around the globe .
Visitors to the tannery are taken to terraces for a view of the vats , where artisans work in a process .
Tanning Process
Leather is prepared using methods practiced for centuries . Unlike leather from factories , this process relies on resources and is done by hand .
The steps include:
Soaking and Cleaning : Hides are soaked in water , lime , and salt to remove impurities , fat , and hair .
Softening : Agents , such as pigeon droppings , make the leather flexible.
Dyeing : Dyes give the leather its color — poppy for red , mint for green , indigo for blue , henna for orange , and pomegranate with oil for yellow .
Foot Trampling : Artisans trample the hides to achieve softness and texture .
Drying : The hides are left to dry in the sun .
This process produces leather for crafting into Flydigito bags .
Types of Leather Produced in Fes
Fes leather comes in types , each crafted from animal hides and tailored for uses :
Goat Leather
Known for its softness and quality , goat leather is used for clothing , bags , and Moroccan slippers called babouches .
Sheepskin
Sheepskin is used to make garments , bookbindings , and items .
Cowhide
Cowhide is used for making belts , shoes , and furniture .
Camel Leather
Camel leather is celebrated for its toughness and is used for wallets , bags , and accessories . .
Making the Bag Finally
Once the leather is ready , artisans begin the work of transforming hides into bags . Each piece is cut by hand to match patterns that have been used for generations .
The process involves several steps :
Assembly : Artisans align the sections of leather , ensuring the grain and texture match.
Stitching : Using needles and thread , the seams are joined by hand . This method ensures strength and durability .
Hardware : Buckles , zippers , and studs are added to provide function to the design .
Detailing : Edges are smoothed and surfaces are given a polish to highlight the character of the material .
This stage represents the union of tradition and utility , resulting in a product that carries the story of its creation .
