They say that the best leather is from animals but you know, there is a lot of conversation on this topic. There is now a campaign to find more durable leather, and we have seen some, such as leather made from grape skins and other fruit waste.
Sustainable fashion can be a challenge, but it can be done with efforts like this fish leather. This is the first time we are hearing about this new type of leather that can be used for a variety of accessories. No, it’s not messy at all, but Felsey knows what it’s doing.
Designer: Antonia Gillette (Felsey)
Fish leather tanneries and studios use bark tanning on the skins of rescued fish. These are the ones that are supposed to be thrown in the trash, but instead turn into fish leather. The processed fish leather is used to make various items such as wallets or cardholders.
Felsey fish leather is long lasting and may even remind you of snake leather at first glance. Many people are asking if it smells like fish. It does not smell fishy but smells like any other genuine leather. The texture is not smooth at all but the patina will develop with time.
When it comes to durability, fish leather is even stronger than cow leather. It is thick because the fibers form a crosshatch pattern. It’s made of fish, but it’s not exactly waterproof. Felsey doesn’t want to use chemical coating, so it’s best if you maintain the dryness of orange-brown leather.
Felsey uses salmon skins from Dunkeld Smokehouse in Scotland. The leather begins with sustainably farmed Scottish fish that is sold as smoked salmon. Salmon skins are saved for tanning with willow bark using traditional and natural bark tanning methods. Even the process of sourcing willow trees is sustainable. The tannins in the tree’s bark penetrate the skin and alter the makeup of the fish’s skin.
Felsie is all about consistency. It was actually created with the concept of “a circular economy.” Fish leather is like no other material and we imagine more products will be available soon. Right now, we know wallets and card cases are in the works. However, we want to see bags and accessories someday and leather goods like shoes, belts, coin purses, bottle holders, laptop bags and journals. Fish leather has a bright future, so now is the time to support this ongoing effort.
