Looking for a way to carry two phones? Our double phone case allows you to keep both phones together, or separate them as needed.

We hand make each two phone case to order from full-grain Italian leather, with openings for all ports and sensors.

Hundreds of customers agree that our double phone case is the best way to carry two phones:

“I’ve been using this dual case for 3 months and love it. It is well-constructed and the cases are easy to separate when I only want to carry one phone. The leather is developing a nice patina and the dual case makes the phones function like two monitors.”

-April 2019

“Looks and feels great! Perfect fit for my phones. This was just what I needed for toting two phones to work, and I like removing the single case on the right for weekends.”

-February 2019

“Just received this yesterday. Beautifully tailored to both of my phones as specified. I love it. My colleagues and I are going to purchase one for our Business Director.”

-November 2018

Our case for 2 phones is available for most phones models.

Hand and Hide makes a handcrafted case that covers the corners of the case for secure protection that won't wear out.

This case is not a universal tablet case with elastic holders (which you can find at a lower price if that is more your style), it is a case made specifically for the reMarkable tablet. Unfamiliar with leather cases? They have some real advantages over plastic. While plastic chips and cracks, leather is soft and absorbs impact without breaking. Many leather cases are cheap and the covers peel or chip after a little while, but the leather used in this case gets better with age. Hand and Hide uses only full grain leather, which means there is no top coating to peel off.

Keep your paper tablet protected in your bag or at work, and keep your stylus where it belongs without losing it. This case has a front cover to protect the screen, but unlike pouches or sleeves, you can use the tablet without removing it from the case. The pencil sleeve is located in the spine so it won’t bother the screen.

Our case is made in Portland, Oregon and hand stitched as well. If you’re looking for a reMarkable paper tablet case that is durable and long lasting, we think you’ll be satisfied.

Here is my real problem with traditional anniversary gifts, they have created a market for a bunch of mostly useless items that can be added to the pile of “useless things with our names and wedding date on them that we started collecting since we got married/partnered” etc. And that really sucks because a lot of the traditional materials for each year can be used to make some legit stuff.

Take year one, for instance, where the traditional gift is paper. I’d wager good money that most of the gifts you looked at were journals - most likely with your name on it? Framed quotes about romantic love or that kit for making an artistic masterpiece while rolling around naked and covered in paint. (I am so curious about how that went by the way, was it fun or awkward as hell?)

I lean more to the side of useful gifts or experience type gifts. I want something that I am going to use on the regular or can look back on and remember a fun time. So if the theme is paper, then buy me a book that I have been wanting to read forever, or buy me a gift card to my favorite bookstore and give it to me with a handwritten note. Buy a Groupon for one of those watercolor and wine nights or take a tour of a paper factory. Even better, make each other a gourmet dinner and watch a doc on the lumber industry while you learn about how you can reduce your use of paper products and recycle more.

When it comes to your third anniversary, leather is the traditional gift because it represents the flexible durability that your relationship is maturing into. Your love is still fragile, but you have to try a lot harder to mess things up at this point. It also represents shelter, a symbol of our ancestral living arrangements and touch, because us humans love the way leather feels.

There are lots of useful leather anniversary gifts you can get your life partner(s) on this special, special occasion. We really love this belt from Grovemade. It’s simple and gender neutral but still exudes class. Also - who doesn’t need a solid belt?

We also love our Hand and Hide wallets because we make them stand out from the crowd with these badass rivets. On top of that, they are also minimalist friendly and force you to downsize your everyday carry.

But our most practical leather gift is our leather phone case that doubles as a wallet. Now you can really downsize and carry one less thing altogether. We make them from premium, imported leather so they last for years and years. This is not a cheap little knick-knack that you will eventually resent for the space it takes up but a useful, everyday item that will go with you everywhere. And yes, if you must, we can put your damn wedding date or initials on it but you can’t make me feel happy about it.

We also have tablet covers and organizational doodads for keeping your cords in order. We don’t make anything we wouldn’t use ourselves and we definitely stay away from the “it goes on your shelf” product market.

Looking to make a memory? Take a class on leatherworking together and learn how to make a simple leather good. Tandy is a nationwide leather store that also offers classes in many major cities around the U.S. and they teach you how to make anything from keychains to hair-on Cowhide bags. You could also visit a local leathermaking shop and explore that together. Not only do they smell really good, but you can also feel different hides and learn more about the different techniques used in leatherworking. 

Have other ideas about how to make your traditional anniversary gift a little different? Leave your thoughts in the comments below. Hope you find something that doesn’t suck for your lovely partner(s) and happy third year anniversary to both or all of you!

The most popular smartphones of 2018 were probably the new iPhone Xs and Xrs, the Pixel 3 and the Samsung Galaxy and Note 9s. We wouldn’t be surprised if the Huawei Mate 20 Pro snuck into a lot of people’s stockings as well. If that is you, then take a look at our Classic leather phone wallet which is the best phone case solution for your new phone. We use only full-grain leather, imported from Italy. Each case is stitched by hand ensuring years and years of durable use. On top of that, leather lends a classy and timeless feel to your everyday carry. Each case can be customized with a free inscription and/or a personal engraving. Or maybe you got a second phone for Christmas and you are wondering how you are going to efficiently balance your work and personal phone life, we have a double phone case solution for that too which you can view here.

For proud owners of a brand new iPad or Kindle or even the new reMarkable tablet, we also create timeless tablet covers and mini e-reader sleeves with pockets. These full-size tablet cases are made from the same high-quality leather and hand-stitching we make our phone cases with. Each case also includes a full-length pocket for handwritten notes etc. Larger tablet cases also include a second pocket for your convenience. Your tablet will be secured in the case with our hand-molded, leather holders. A stylus sleeve is a popular add-on for our tablet customers who like to store their Apple Pencil or other styli with their tablet. Tablet cases can also be customized with engravings and free inscriptions. Shop tablet cases here. 

All of our goods are made to order and take up to two weeks to ship so order as soon as possible to ensure your new devices are protected. We know that is a long time these days but trust us, our goods are worth the wait. Take a look at our leather goods and let us know how we can customize the perfect piece for your new gear.

Happy New Year,

1. Set reasonable expectations for yourself. Take a few minutes to sit down and make a list of what you want your holidays to look like, feel like and who and what you want to include. Now look back through the list you just made and evaluate if you really have the time and energy to make it to all those events or create the vision in your head. Watch for magical thinking or unrealistic time and energy expectations for yourself and others.
   
   
2. Get started early. If you have a lot of presents to wrap, family to call, cards to send, etc then get started now. Wrap one present a day or write two cards each evening. That way you won’t find yourself on the eve of a holiday with everything to do. That last day is for all the other last minute things you forgot so get everything that you can done ahead of time.
   
   
3. Take breaks from social media, advertisements and shopping. Starting in early November, we are constantly inundated with images and messages about what the “perfect” holiday party or gathering should look like. The advertisements for gifts, decorations and even cars are relentless and can make us feel as if we don’t have enough things to truly celebrate with our friends and family. This is of course, not true. Celebrating with friends and family is really more about being present with them and making memories. So make some space for quiet time alone throughout the month.
   
   
4. Along with the previous idea, make time for self-care. This can be as simple as taking an extra long hot shower, going for a run, lighting a candle you love and watching your favorite holiday film. Whatever it is, make sure it is something that gives you a real break from all the to-dos. Also, if you are the one hosting the party or family over the holidays, try to squeeze in at least an hour of self-care before everyone arrives. You feel much more rested and ready to receive everyone.
   
   
5. Be firm on healthy boundaries with people. You never have to be around someone. No one can tell you who you have to see or hug or talk to at holiday gatherings. If you know of an unsafe person who has also be invited you can try asking your family or friends to have you over before or after that person is there. If you do choose to be around those people then know that you can walk away from conversations if they are too unpleasant to handle. Taking breathing breaks and call an understanding friend for support if you feel yourself spiraling. Your mental and emotional health is far more important than any holiday or social tradition.
   
   
6. Lastly, take a day off from work or school after the holidays. You will feel more refreshed returning to your job if you have had a whole day to reflect, process and even just be lazy the day after a busy holiday. Understandably, not everyone has the luxury of an extra day off but take it if you can or get creative with the time off you do have to make some time to decompress.

On a side note, we have officially stopped taking orders for delivery by Christmas. If you were not able to order by our deadline of December 6th, don’t stress it. You can always give a gift after the holidays, because honestly, who says it has to be that day? However or whatever you choose to celebrate this year, have a wonderful break and lots of self-love.

Happy Holidays

from the Hand and Hide team.

Our packaging is now much lower in plastic content and it looks great while maintaining the sturdy factor as well. I’ll take you through our shipping steps so you have an idea of how we get our handmade leather goods out the door and on their way to you.

First, we polish the item and do one last check to ensure the order details are correct. If it is one of our phone wallets or the double phone case then we make sure to give the custom engraving or free inscription an extra polish.

Next, we set the item in the small box and wrap it in our brand stamped linen. We tie the box shut with our favorite color of string, right now it is a pretty blue-green. Lastly, we tuck in a newly designed flyer that includes a return customer discount for your next purchase. This all gets placed in our attractive new craft bubble mailers.

If you are looking to gift one of our leather phone wallets this holiday season then the wrapping has already been done for you. Who doesn’t love to receive a box tied up with string? I know it’s Julie Andrews’ favourite. Please note however that we do not offer gift-wrapping paper or bows this year.

Let us know what you think of our new packaging in the comments and be sure to order your gifts two weeks ahead of the date you need them.

Happy Holidays!

Yukon usually sits at our feet while we stitch or takes long naps in his bed by the sewing machine. Occasionally he'll walk around the studio to get a pet or two and give us a nice break from whatever we're working on at the moment. 

Now we know that not everyone loves dogs as much as we do and we are very sensitive to people's feelings about them. If you would like to come by but not interact with Yukon we completely understand and we keep him leashed for those visitors who prefer a little space. 

When Yukon is at home he loves trying to make friends with the resident cat, Albus, and going on long walks around Gresham parks. However, Yukon's favorite place to walk and run is the beach and he gets there as often as he can.

Let’s be honest, phones haven’t been just phones for a while now and multitasking features need to reflect these societal changes better than they do now. We rely in part on these devices get us from A to Z, accomplish our Christmas shopping and keep us updated on world events. They are our wallets, computers, calendar/planners and social connectors. In all seriousness, they are becoming an offshoot our brains. And whilst our actual brain has a nice bone casing for protection, many people leave their hand-held brain completely vulnerable to every accidental drop. For those who wish to give their second brain the best start in life, take a look at Hand and Hide leather phone wallets. We have a few different styles of Pixel 3 phone cases since we know that everyone needs something a little different for their everyday carry.

For those with a First, Second, and even Third Brain (which we like to call the work provided brain) we have the Double Phone Case. This case holds two phones in one convenient case. It also, and this is the best part, separates into two halves as needed so you can leave one of your brains behind. Like, say you want to toss your work brain in a drawer over the weekend or you prefer to keep your personal brain in your bag while at work but still want to keep both brains safe in their case. Phew, that’s a lot of brains. You can shop that Pixel 3 case here.

For those of us who only have two brains to keep track of, we offer a couple different wallet style cases that are totally customizable. You can go here to select your device type, customize your preferences and order your new phone case. We have both the Google Pixel 3 and the 3 XL phone cases live on the site now, even though the Pixel won’t ship for another couple weeks or so. It generally takes us 1-2 weeks to make and ship a case so now is a good time to order and ensure that you have a Pixel case ready for when your phone arrives.

Since the new iPhones just recently launched, we thought we would remind you all that we always have our cases ready to go for the new devices. Our full selection of phone cases are now available for your new iPhone XS, XS Max or XR.

We have four different types of phone cases available for the new iPhones. Each phone case type we offer is available for each of these new devices. Let's break them down one by one so you can get the best fit for your lifestyle.

The Classic iPhone Case

Our original case and still the fan favorite. Our classic wallet case features a convenient wallet that you can customize with your name and extra card slots. As usual, our hand-molded leather tabs secure your phone into place and the overall coverage protects your screen and phone from damage with quality leather and handmade stitching. Go here to start customizing your leather iPhone case.

The Flex

The Flex may look a lot like the classic at first glance, however, it boasts a versatile feature that keeps your phone use easy and unencumbered. While few can deny the benefits of combining your phone case and wallet into one, most agree there are times when the wallet just isn’t needed and even gets in the way. Think about that monthly (or weekly) 2-hour long phone call with your mom or Netflixing in the airport? There are times when you would prefer your case was a little lighter and less bulky. That is why we designed the Flex. This unique case utilizes a handy, 2-snap design to give you the option of carrying your phone case with the matching wallet portion or going without. The 2-piece case easily snaps together and apart for any situation. Select your device here to get started.

The Double

Some people are twice as lucky as others and are the proud owners of two phones. Keep the clutter to a minimum and have easy access to either phone with our double phone. It’s all leather and can separate into two halves so you can leave your work phone behind when you are off the clock. Get yours now.

The Wrap 

This is our newest iPhone case design and serves as a great alternative case for those who prefer lighter, slimmer carry. It wraps around the case leaving precise access to each port, camera, and button for your uninhibited use. This case is currently in beta as we try to work out the last kinks of the design. It’s available at a discounted price for a limited time for customers who want to try out the case and give us feedback before the official launch. You can learn more and shop the case here.

1. Reduce Company Waste
   Most local makers only produce goods on made-to-order or small batch system, especially the up and coming ones who don’t operate on a large scale. In fact, here at Hand and Hide, we only make our phone wallets and leather travel goods to order. If there isn’t a demand for it then we don’t make it. Many other small makers we know also make-to-order or make their items in small batches.
   
   Supporting businesses that create small amounts of their product makes your treasured possessions more unique and reduces the need for grotesquely extraneous amounts of goods sitting and gathering dust in massive warehouses. Have you ever seen the warehouse behind a Target, Walmart or Macy’s? Take the number of goods you see in the store and then multiply that by about 10 to get the amount of goods in the warehouse. Then multiply that by the number of stores in your town or city. That’s a lot of arguably useless junk from cheap manufacturers taking up massive amounts of space and energy in these stores.
   
   On top of that, it may make you cry when you learn what these types of companies do with their unsold merchandise. Check out the article from the Marketplace.org to learn more about how landfills are filling with unwanted merchandise every year. By shopping small you can do your part to reduce the massive waste our consumerist values are helping to create. 
   
   
2. Shop by Bike.
   
   Buying local eliminates the need for your purchase to be loaded onto a long haul semi-truck or an airplane which uses massive amounts of fossil fuel every day. In fact, here in Portland, there are several shopping districts that feature a wide variety of goods from local makers. Ride your bike to the Hawthorne, Division or Mississippi neighborhoods and then spend the day walking around checking out all the local goods your city has to offer. Take a look at the facts provided by theU.S. Energy Information Administration to learn more about which sectors are using the most energy and fossil fuels.
   
   
3. Limit the Use of Plastics
   
   Small makers often don’t have the resources needed to shrink wrap their goods or package their items in horrible plastic cases. They also tend to be more intentional and conscientious about the packaging they use. Many small makers will talk about their values on their website so look ahead of time to see what your local makers are doing to reduce their impact on the planet. Whether that be through donations to environmental groups, recyclable packaging or reduced carbon emissions in the workplace. We are currently working on a new packaging design that will focus more on paper and less on plastics like bubble wrap. We can’t wait to get the new packaging out the door! 
   
   
4. Buy Better, Buy Less
   
   Locally made goods are often made with more care and attention to detail as well as with better materials than mass-produced goods. For instance, we offer lifetime warranties and repairs on our handmade leather goods to ensure that your product can either be fixed or replaced. This helps you buy less over time because you aren’t constantly replacing broken or poorly designed goods. If you buy a leather phone wallet that is mass produced in China, for example, you may have saved yourself a chunk of money to begin with but you would spend less over time if you bought something made to last forever in the first place. Consume better, less often.
   
   
   
   
5. Help your Local Economy and Reduce the Use of Fossil Fuels by Commuters
   
   Lastly, you are contributing to your local economy and keeping your neighbors and community employed by supporting local makers and shops. That could mean less use of fossils fuels by individuals who might otherwise have a long commute into other communities to find work. And shopping local keeps you engaged and connected to your community and the people shaping it. We know that we are built for connection and a good interaction with people helps make us all happier. That is why we love it when people stop by our studio for a friendly chat and casual tour. Hope to see you around sometime!

So there you have it! Although reducing our impact on the earth is a big topic you already have a few ways you can be more mindful about the way you shop and how that feeds back into the world. And, I think that if we really reflect on it, we know that our lives do make a difference and create an impact in one direction or another. We cannot change the world on our own. We need each other to do that! But we can spark a change, we can be the first to stand up for what we believe in and live it. Take these changes one step at a time and believe in your ability to make a difference. If you need more inspiration take a look at the bold words from leaders like Nelson Mandela, Mother Theresa, and JFK. All people who believed in the power of the individual and lived that belief out in their own lives.

Thanks for reading and good luck!

Before you can really get into the importance of branding you need to have a better understanding of what a brand is. First and foremost - it is not a logo. A logo is an important aspect of your brand (that we will get into more later) but it is not the brand in and of itself. So what is a brand then? A brand is an idea and a perception. And just like most ideas, brands can change and shift subtly over time. That is why the Nordstrom you shop at today is barely recognizable as the company it started out as: a dedicated shoe store in Seattle, Washington called Wallin & Nordstrom.

 Just as ideas convey feelings, constructs and thoughts to a person your brand will also represent a set of emotions and thoughts to your consumers. It is your job to craft a brand that conveys positive thoughts and feelings like trust, professionalism, and fun - to name a few. The feelings you want your brand to convey will also depend on the product you are offering. If you make sunglasses, for instance, you will want your brand to represent fun, adventure, and popularity. However, if you own a real estate firm you may want your brand to evoke "The Future", prosperity, and trustworthiness. Think of sunglass brand you know of that evokes those ideas. That company is doing a good job communicating their branding to the consumer populace. That is your job - to correctly categorize the product you sell, identify the customers that will want it and what thoughts and feelings that will best encompass your product, values, customers, and goals. Below is an example of a collection of images that we feel accurately evoke the thoughts and feelings associated with our leather goods brand. We use ideas of hand-crafting, travel, the Pacific NW and our roots in leather-crafting in the Middle East to communicate our values and background to our customers.

Most importantly your branding should convey your personality and values to help separate you from the crowd. Think about what your strongest values are, what you love about your product and what kind of person your friends would describe you as. Try to work these themes and ideas into your brand. Most customers are brand loyal not because there isn’t any good competition for the product but because a certain brand is more relatable to them than the rest.

Leggo my Logo

A good logo will encompass the ideals and associated feelings of a brand. This does not happen overnight. First, you need to establish your company and products and stay as consistent as possible with your messaging about who you are. These things will naturally shift and change somewhat but make an effort to be as consistent as you can. As you build a customer base and following, your fans will naturally start to attribute these ideas with your logo. Think about some of the best-known logos. Nike’s swoosh, the Starbucks’ siren, Apple’s… apple. For each of these companies, it took years of branding, messaging and evolving for these logos to evoke the feelings they do today. These logos underwent micro changes over time but for the most part, they maintain the same look. It is vastly important that you develop a logo for the launch of your business and use it everywhere. On your website, products, workspaces, packaging, social media accounts, delivery vans, whatever applies. Your earliest customers need to synonymize your logo with your products from the get-go, so don’t begin until you have one.

Stick Up for Your Brand

Now that you are building your brand and getting your story out there you will probably be tempted from time to time to sell out on your brand. Many small makers and other start-ups struggle with cash flow in the beginning. Very few companies are successful right off the bat, you will probably go through rough months, dry spells where you hardly sell anything. During these tough times, it will be especially difficult to resist offers to sell from competing businesses looking to cut down the competition before it gets started. If you believe in your brand and are looking for more than a quick buck then muscle past these tough times and persist. Another issue you might run into before your brand really takes off could be requests from resellers and customers to remove your logo from your products. This is especially an issue for makers. The motivation for these requests can differ. Sometimes resellers are looking to sell your goods as their own (very harmful for your brand) to customers looking for a brandless look for their personal image (marginally harmful to your brand but very harmful for word of mouth.) Whatever the motivation is behind these requests, you should stick to your brand and never remove your logo from your products. This is your work, blood, sweat, and tears, there is no compelling reason for you to take your name off it. Imagine if someone walked into Nike and said, “I love the shoes but not the swoosh - can you remove it first?” That would never happen because people are buying the brand, they respect the brand. By sticking to your guns when you are small you build the respect and recognition your brand needs to grow and thrive. 

Stay Fresh

One last note before we end here. If you have been in business for a while and the requests to remove your logo and concerns about your branding keep coming up you may want to have a fresh look at your branding. Consider refreshing your logo if this is a common and increasing request. It could signal that your branding/logo is way out of date, clunky, or your customers intrinsically feel that it is out of line with your values and products. If you are getting this request all the time… feel free to ask the customer why and use it as an honest check-in of whether you need a brand refresh or not.

Ready for the next upgrade? The Samsung Note 9 landed today and it is as desirable as predicted by Forbes, Business Insider, and Android Central. This update is set to refresh the camera, S-pen as well as give it a serious speed boost. We know at Hand and Hide that when it is time for a new phone, it is time for a new phone case as well. With the Note 9 set to ship later this month, you can order your case from us now and it will arrive in time to put on your new phone.

Worried about our hand-molded leather holders maintaining a secure grip on your phone? Newer, larger screens seen on phones like the Notes have presented a challenge to leather phone wallets. But we evolved to meet this change and have started incorporating microsuction tape into our case design for phones as far back as the s8 series. This awesome technology maintains a firm grip on the back of your phone along with our leather holders but still allows for easy removal of your Note 9 from the case when needed.

Give us a call if you need help ordering your new phone case for the Note 9 or would like to know more about the customization options we offer on our products. Our staff is available Tues-Fri and is always happy to help.

Number One: Made Here PDX

Just opening their fourth store in August 2018, Made Here PDX has been making it easy for guests and locals alike to cut through the touristy garbage and get straight to the authentic local goods that really exemplify Portland’s vibe and values. Walking into their shops is like walking into a cultured collection of the finest handmade goods. Made Here prides themselves on the breadth and width of their selection featuring only the best handmade goods. Shop goods from makers like Dehen, The Bitter Housewife, Jacobson Salt Co and yours truly - just to name a few. Check out their website to see more brands and get directions for your visit. 

Number 2: Boy’s Fort.

This quirky retailer sells eclectic items they know everyone, not just the boys, will love. It’s a tightly curated selection of handmade, local and vintage goods from around the US. You’ll walk out feeling confident that you can decorate your den, fun room or fort from just their selection. You'll feel like you taken a step into the past with aesthetics from the 50's, 60's and modern day. Take a look at the Boy's Fort website to learn a little more about owners Jake and Rolf (who are almost always there to greet you!) and plan your experience. 

Number 3: Tender Loving Empire (TLE)

With several locations around town, including one in the airport, it’s not hard to find a little love and fun wherever you are in Portland. TLE had the creative and inspired idea to combine a shop of local made goods with a… record label. This is literally the only place in Portland you can browse tons of eclectic music from local and national bands while picking up locally made soaps and goods from artists and makers based right here. You can take a look at their website to learn more here.

We are proud and happy to be included these curated selections of Portland’s goods and we know you fall in love with a ton of the other makers they feature as well. These shops are an excellent resource for leather goods and last minute gifts so give them a shot if you need something now. However, if you have a couple of weeks to wait before you need your goods then swing by our studio, pick out your leather in person and take advantage of all our customization options. Leather phone wallets are currently not stocked in our partner stores. These can only be ordered online or in person at our studio and are made to order only. 

Happy shopping! 

Step 1

The first step? Purchase one case to carry both phones. A double cell phone case is difficult to find as your two devices are not necessarily the same size or even made by the same company. However, we firmly believe keeping both phones together is a necessary part of “two phone sanity”, which is why we made a dual phone case that does just that and is detachable. The separability of our two phone case is arguably it’s most important feature.

Why? During the week you will generally need your work phone on your person before and during work hours in addition to your personal device. Carrying your phones in one case cleans up the clutter and reduces confusion. Now you won’t have to dig through your pockets or purse trying to find the right phone, and if you get two calls at the same time you can simply open up the case and see both incoming calls at once and decide which to answer and which to ignore. It’s ok, your parents will understand, right?

The detachability comes into play on your lunch break, off hours and over the weekend. There’s no point in lugging around a phone you aren’t using, so simply separate the two halves and only carry the phone you need. Our case is designed to offer the same amount of protection against damage whether the case is connected or detached so there is no need to be concerned about dropping your phone when the case is separated.

Although people have started to address the need for dual phone cases, there are still very few options available on the market and none of the other options gives you the array of device options that we do. Also the Hand and Hide double phone case is made from imported Italian leather for amazing and long lasting durability.

Step 2

Be very disciplined about using your phones for their assigned purpose. Never give out your personal number or contact info to business associates or coworkers. Also, if you help manage business related accounts for social media etc, keep them logged in on your work phone and don’t login to your personal accounts on your work phone, ever. If you keep your work life and personal life separate and their associated phones separate as well, then you won’t run the risk of missing an important communication that came through on the wrong device. It also helps you really take a break from your work phone and teaches your employer and coworkers to know what hours and days they can reach you.

Step two and step three, which we will get into more later, are really about boundaries that make your brain happy. By keeping these two worlds separate your brain will naturally categorize the two phones differently and associate different meanings, contexts and feelings with them. For instance, if you are dealing with stressful emails from your boss and then get a text from a family member, you may associate negative or stressful connotations to an otherwise innocuous communication. Not to mention it is simply overwhelming to juggle both circles at once. Additionally, many professionals with two phones find it easier to turn off their personal phone while at work. They feel less distracted from the tasks at hand and enjoy setting the expectation with friends and family that they unavailable, except for real emergencies, during work hours. Your work and personal life really are two separate worlds and dealing with two at once leaves you drained and ineffective in either one.

Step 3

Turn off your work phone whenever you are not at work. Gasp! Yes, it can be done! When you are at work and using your work phone, your brain will likely associate some level of stress (remember not all stress is bad) with the work phone because it brings in more problem solving opportunities than your personal phone (we hope!). After the work day is over and you are heading out or heading home, you can separate your phones and turn your work phone off. After you have done this a few times your brain will recognize that “work” time is over and will most likely stop the background work chatter in your head. Leaving you free to enjoy your time off without distraction. Turning your phone all the way off and possibly stashing it out of sight is absolutely essential to your peace and enjoyment during off times. The need to watch for an important email etc is very strong, so make it as annoying and difficult as possible to access your work life. That way you can resist the temptation to check-in and become embroiled in office related issues over the weekend. Then you can give your full attention to the people and things around you.

Although using two phone case carries a stigma of stress and frantic behavior many people are finding that it helps them maintain the divide between work and personal time. Employing this practice will deepen your relationships, eliminate work stress at home and create more space for rest and recovery from the demands of the work hours. Human beings need break time, and we also need beginnings and endings. This practice will help you to fully enjoy and rest during your evenings and weekends and make you that much more productive and focused during work hours.

1. Most importantly the camera got a helpful upgrade. A mechanical aperture shift moves between f/2.4 and f/1.5 making it possible to not only get even more gorgeous photos during the day but now shots that other smartphones would fail to capture at night are coming out better than ever. 

2. Speakers are positioned to direct sound at you instead of into your hands which annoyingly muffled the sound at times.

3. They have also upgraded to supported Dolby Atmos for 360-degree sound. Not only is the output louder but it is also noticeably sharper.

4. Snapdragon upgrade per usual for US customers. European customers get the Exynos upgrade. 

5. Although the display size remains the same at 5.8" the bezels have been reduced again giving you even more space. 

6. That iris color though. We're not huge fans of the new shade so having an attractive leather case to cover it up may be seen as a bonus for some! 

7. Many S8 owners reported a big issue with camera smudges due to the close proximity of the back camera and fingerprint ID. Samsung has solved this by moving the ID sensor to reduce camera smudges.

8.  Animoji. Samsung's 3D Emoji feature imitates the iPhone X's wildly popular (and somewhat creepy) Animoji capabilities bringing interactive emojis to Android users for the first time. 

9. Getting a new phone is a great excuse to get a new case. With the camera and ID placement change and the slight difference in size, your old S7 or S8 cases will not fit the new version. And who can say no to the feel and smell of brand new leather? 

Shop our brand new cases for the Galaxy S9 or S9 Plus.

Can a leather goods store really give me an unbiased answer about the durability of leather phone cases?

The answer is YES.

For 2 reasons.

First of all, we are well-acquainted with leather; having worked with it and made leather phone cases for years, since 2011.

Secondly, our experience with hand making phone cases over the years has been deeply influenced by some very important people.

Who are these valued geniuses who influence our design choices?

You know it…

It is our customers!

We have heard back from hundreds of customers over the years. About what they liked and did not like. About what we could change or improve. Our customers have always been totally honest with us about what does and does not work for them and their phones.

We are so thankful for our customer response because that has allowed us to improve our design over the years until and make all of our customers happy. Read on to see what our customers have said over the years.

Instead of telling you ourselves whether or not leather phone cases really work, we thought we would our customers do that for us.

Scroll down to see how what real life Hand and Hide customers have said about their leather phone cases.

So, do leather phone cases actually work?

We can confidently say, thanks to our customer’s responses, that our leather phone cases do indeed protect delicate smartphones from damage. And none better than a Hand and Hide leather phone case. Read below to see the 3 main reasons our customers love their phone wallets and depend on them for the long life of their device.

3 Reasons Leather Phone Wallets Are the Best

There are 3 main reasons we believe that Hand and Hide cases are better than the competition out there.

1. Durability.
2. Aesthetic.
3. Functionality.  

Let’s address each of these topics with responses from our customers.

Just How Durable is Leather Really?

It isn’t enough for you to hear us say that our phone cases are durable. Why not hear directly from many of our ecstatic customers who took the time to come back and review their Hand and Hide phone case.

These happy customers were so overjoyed about the longevity of their cases that they had to share their experience and help others like you have the confidence to buy from us.

Leather Phone Case Reviews:

“I think the phone cases made by Hand and Hide are beautifully crafted with quality materials. I drop my phone almost daily and it is perfectly protected in its Hand and Hide case. In fact, I have no doubt that the case will long outlast the phone. Any ideas on how to recycle these great cases?” - Catherine Clement 4/21/2016. Samsung Galaxy S6.

“This is lovely, high quality, and protects my phone from frequent bumps and drops :)” - Heidi 1/8/2017. iPhone 7.

“Second time purchasing a cell phone case, and I must say that the quality is simply excellent. Last case lasted 3 years of continuous daily use, and could last another 10 years. A bit pricey perhaps, but worth every dollar.” - Aly Bernd 6/5/2017. iPhone 7.

“I had already used a wallet case for several years and loved the idea of having everything in one place. It was a Pad & Quill case, made with a leather cover but a wood case. After dropping it several times, the wood began to crack. I made a new case myself out of a harder wood and that lasted, however the closing mechanism was an elastic cloth band that wore out quickly and also needed replacing--several times. Eventually, I dropped the phone when the band had come off, the case opened and the screen cracked. That’s when I started shopping for a new one and found Hand and Hide. Everything about it is better: Without the wood it is lighter and smaller, it holds as many credit cards but doesn't bulge as much, the snap closure is clearly not going to wear out and means I don't have to worry about phone damage. Finally, it is beautiful. High quality, beautifully conditioned leather, hand stitched with heavy thread. Just looking at the photos, I was a little worried about how secure the leather mechanism to hold phone would be but it is solid. Also, made a call to Hand and Hide to enquire about some details and they were super helpful. Worth every penny. Love it.” - John Michel, 1/27/2017. iPhone SE.

Are Leather Phone Cases Attractive?

Another thing our customers mention a lot of the time is how many compliments they received on their new case. Additionally, a good chunk of our business is returning customers. So you can bet that they have taken those compliments to heart.

Here are some sweet compliments from our returning customers:

“I highly recommend this company. This is my second purchase from them, I bought a case from them in early 2012 and it aged beautifully. I used it every day for 4 years and it’s in better condition now than it was when I bought it because the leather is soft and broken-in. I was sad to replace it when my old phone died.” - JR, 4/3/2016. iPhone 7.

“Love my custom iPhone wallet case. I sent my own mandala design for engraving and it looks spectacular! Ordered red and the plum color. They just get better with time!! Repeat customer here!!” - Julie Locklear, 8/28/2016.

“I am addicted to exquisite leather craftsmanship and this case fits the category. The hide is high end, subtle yet sturdy. The stitching is perfect. This phone case is elegant and low key. A piece of art. Congratulations.” - emc, 6/29/2016. iPhone 6s.

“My husband has gone through several iPhone cases, but this one is built to last. It’s heavy-duty, but slim enough for his front pocket. Very well made, real leather, and monogramming is a nice touch. Several of his friends have said, “nice case.” I think they’re jealous.” - jannasperie 2/9/2015. iPhone 4.

“I truly love this item. This is my second wallet. I had the exact same one for my iphone 4S. When I decided to upgrade to the 6 I knew I had to purchase this wallet first. I take it with me everywhere and am constantly receiving compliments on it. It is expertly made. The salesperson at BestBuy told me that it was the best quality wallet phone case he’d ever seen. Thank you for making such a fantastic wallet!” - Meleah Boyle, 11/17/2014. iPhone 6s.

Are Handmade Leather Phone Cases a Practical Choice?

One of the things that our phone cases have that most other cheap manufacturers of phone cases don't bother with is a wallet side. Our phone cases are all designed with a functional wallet half for convenient storage of cash, cards and ID, right next to your phone. As life gets more complicated, it's important to make your days as simple as possible.

Hear directly from some Hand and Hide phone case owners about how our wallet pockets have improved their life.

“Very nice phone case. Leather is soft and of very high quality and the construction is excellent. I am replacing a a very nice slip case that cost much more and I like this case better. Price was excellent for such a high quality product. Very good service as well. Pleased with purchase.” - Randy Joliff, 9/4/2016. iPhone 4.

“I bought a customised iPhone wallet/case over a year ago, and have used it every day.it is excellent quality and still looks as new.I will certainly be buying more products from hand and hide including another iPhone wallet/case once I upgrade. I live in the U.K. And have not seen such good quality at a reasonable prices.” - Sophia 2.24.2017. iPhone 6s

“Excellent craftsmanship. The case fits my phone like a glove. and provides complete protection. Well worth the money. Big box store versions don't even come close to comparison.” - Kesingertodd, 3/2/2015. Samsung Galaxy Note Edge.

“I am so in love with this item. I got mine laser etched with the floral design and wristlet attachment. My phone fits perfectly inside it, and it holds my four or so necessary cards well. This is a truly wonderful piece with both function and beauty.” - Tamara Rutledge, 10/4/2015.

What’s the bottom line?

Not convinced you need a phone case at all? Take a look at this article from the New York Times that breaks down exactly what cell phones do and do not need to enjoy a long life and avoid those annoying shattered screens.

Top 5 Uses for the Air Plant Holder

  Air Plant Holder

Makeup Brush Holder

Another practical use for this starry leather design is as a makeup brush holder. Not only does it hold quite a few of them but it also looks great along with all your other attractive beauty essentials and adds a pop of color to your beautification station.

Pens/Business Card Holder

Candle Holder

Catch All

Customize Any Item

The Hand and Hide Air Plant Holder is currently available in all of our 9 colors and you can even request that it be stitched in white thread, rather than black. Grab it today, our early promotional price is ending soon!

Have a custom leather order for Hand and Hide? We can dye leather in several colors and as you can see on our Air Plant Holder our laser cutter can create whatever pattern and design you can imagine. Give our friendly staff a call at 503.255.1172 or email us at info@handandhide.com.

Check out our top suggestions below and click on your favorites to purchase. Email us a note to let us know when you need it by. Generally, our shipping takes 2-3 days in the contiguous US. Also, most of these items can be personalized with an engraving. Please specify one from our current selection on our customization page or email us your own design at info@handandhide.com.

Now your dad can travel in style with our sleek leather passport wallet. By combining his wallet and passport this handy accessory leaves him with one less thing to keep track of while he's catching last minute planes, hopping a cab to the hotel or visiting the local museum. Our passport wallets holds 4-8 cards - perfect for traveling needs as well as his passport and currency.

We’re offering limited edition Father’s Day wallets in a couple two-toned designs. This new all-riveted version of our popular Medium Wallet features an even more functional currency pocket and can hold up to 16 cards easily. Your dad will appreciate the industrial riveted design and buttery soft Horween leather made to last the ages.

For the introspective/hard working dad with taste, we have a stylin’ Felt Leather Notebook Cover that looks like it came straight from the desk of the likes of J.R.R. Tolkien etc. Your dad can scribble his joke ideas, bomb shelter plans or journal about his favorite Geico commercials.

Help Dad stay organized with our sophisticated leather accessories for home and office. Mac charger, iPad, iPhone and headphone wraps will allow your dad to spend more productive time doing what he loves and less time pulling out what little hair he has leftover tangled cords.

Does your Daddy love his drinkies? Ply him with our classy take on the Beer Cozy all in full-grain leather with antique brass snaps that adjust to thin and wide beer bottles. Teetotaler? Up his green juice intake and help him take care of his heart with our healthy lifestyle approved Mason Jar Handles. Mason Jar included if you choose. Your mom will love you even more.

Get your Hand and Hide accessories today and shop now. Have questions about our leather goods and customizations? Give our friendly staff a call at: 503.255.1172

Our bicycle bags are made 100% by hand in our Portland, OR studio. We use high-quality, full-grain leather and time-tested techniques to make our bags. With the handmade touch as well as the rustic aesthetic of gorgeous honey leather, these bags will up your game a notch as you cycle around town.

What to put in my new bicycle bag you ask? Well, run to the grocery store for whatever you forgot, pack a book to your favorite park, keep your emergency tools on hand. These bags are also the perfect carry for your camera, snacks, coffee, tea, cat (just kidding) spare shoes, etc. As you can see the sky is the limit.

Below is our super happy tutorial for how to strap your new Hand and Hide leather bicycle bag onto your bike. Follow the photos and instructions for quick and easy install that gets you on the road (or trail) in no time at all.

First - locate the two buckles you will use to attach the bag to your bike. You can attach the bag either on your handlebar or to your top tube (the straight bar of the frame).

Cinch the buckles around the bar and tighten to the best fitting loop. You want your bag to tightened until it is snugly strapped to your frame or handlebar, that way it won’t bounce or sway while you bike around.

And you’re done! No… really, that’s all there is to it.

Unbuckle the lid to pack in your goodies and re-buckle to get on your way. Enjoy the weekend! Want the bag? Use the links above to purchase and check out our other leather goods or give us a call at 503.255.1172 to find out more about Hand and Hide. 

We sent some of these designs to New Seasons as well, in hopes that they will find us to be a good fit for their home and gifts section. Most of these engravings were added onto customer favorite products like our Mason Jar Mug Handle or the Key Fobs but we also added an adventurous design to our brand new leather Beer Cozy.

Take a look at the designs below as well as their inspirations and let us know what you think!

Mason Jar Mug Handle

Inspirational Key Fobs

Need an extra push to get and out and enjoy the outdoors? These engraved Key Chains serve as an inspirational reminder to give in to your wanderlust or go on a camping adventure. You'll already headed out - why not go where you really want to?

Beer Cozy

Our leather beer cozy has all the vibes. Enjoy a cold brew and a firm handle on your bottle at the same time with our exciting new design. Not only is our beer cozy a cut above the rest with it's full-grain leather quality but it also looks sleek and refined at your backyard BBQ, camping weekend or Sunday picnic. 

Saw something you liked? Head over to our online store to shop now or give our friendly staff a call to customize your summer adventure gear. 

We got to meet Tyler Benner from Venn Designs and try out his spherical chairs the other day at ADX’s Open House. We had not heard of Venn Designs before but were completely wowed by these gorgeous chairs that not only serve as statement pieces for your home or office but also perform the much more necessary service of aligning your body and mind for a stronger, happier version of you.

The concept of the stability ball has been popular for awhile now as people have become more and more concerned with the ergonomic set-up of their desk arrangement and the long-term effects these can have on your health. After learning more about the unhealthy side effects of standard furniture, Tyler was inspired to create his Venn Chairs as an alternative way to sit for long periods of time.

Although the use of stability balls has somewhat diminished due to their sporty appearance and cheap construction Tyler’s Venn designs offer an elegant solution to both of those drawbacks.

Each chair is specially constructed from several layers of quality materials ensuring the perfect amount of cushion, alignment correction and even temperature control. See the diagram from Tyler’s website below to get a closer look at the in-depth design each of these chairs features.

And besides the fact that these chairs are handmade here in Portland, OR - our favorite thing about Venn Designs is their bright and modern patterns made possible with Pendleton Eco-wool. These will compliment and brighten any space, whether that is the sitting room of your house or your trendy new workspace. And not only do these fabrics look amazing but we also believe they make it easier to maintain your position on the “chair”. Remember those plasticy stability balls? So easy to slip off if your focus wandered.

They also come in smaller sizes so you can replace the poorly design children’s furniture in their playroom and provide them with some colorful Venn chairs instead. Not only will they look great but they will help your little ones get their wiggles out while learning about posture and alignment.

Sara - Fave Camping Story

I’m from Arizona so most of my camping memories were made in the desert. My favorite camping memory is actually from 8th grade, this was my most memorable trip to the Grand Canyon so far. I was with my best friend and her family at a KOA and I still have the necklace from that trip. Seeing the Grand Canyon is something you cannot forget. I also camped in Mexico a few times with my Dad which was super fun but my most recent camping experience was “camping” in the backyard with several friends which was also a blast. I’m excited to explore some campgrounds in the PNW this summer. My Hand & Hide must have for camping is definitely my phone wallet, it makes it easier to travel light if you need to hike in a bit or want to have less with you on the go.

Jeff - Camping Pro

Jeff’s favorite camping spot is Lake Powell, Arizona. This camping find is also partly in Utah and features miles and miles of remote areas to drive, hike or kayak into. Jeff likes to get as far away from civilization as he can when he camps so he kayaks deep in away from other people. He loves setting up near the lake and climbing up steep cliffs to get a better view of the magical, rocky landscape. He does recommend keeping an eye out for scorpions, however. His Hand & Hide must have is the earbud wrap case because music + solitary camping = heaven. Jeff also wants a leather holder for his french press which he also never camps without.

Sergei - Camping on the Oregon Coast

Sergei loves camping on the Oregon Coast. He enjoys building fires and the feel of the strong wind on the beach, so it’s a good thing he’s very proficient at pitching his tent securely. His top three coastal camping spots are Manzanita near Cannon Beach, MulHolland Bay and Ecola Park. His advice is to take some extra time to hike in a little farther to get away from other people and to carefully calculate how much your kids will eat because hungry kids when you are far from easy sources of food is a nightmare. His Hand & Hide camping must have is our Beer Sleeve which has absolutely nothing to do with the previously mentioned situation.

Hannah - Camping Newbie

Wrap it Up

We offer 3 charger wraps, iPhone, iPad and MacBook. Each of these makes an elegant solution for travel, working from home and home organization for your charging cords. Easy to wrap up and throw into your bag without worrying about it getting all tangled up and lost in the depths. And no matter how long it’s in there it will not come apart so you can survive a long flight or train ride with your bag’s contents accessible and neat.

We also have a headphone wrap that works with most types of earbuds so you can save time spent on unraveling those frustrating knots over and over again. And not only does our earbud wrap save you time but it also keeps your headphones clean because they’re not rolling around at the bottom of your bag anymore.

We use genuine, full-grain leather and a quality felt to make our cord organizers. We also incorporate antique brass snaps and rivets into each design so they all have that sleek industrial look that will lend an edge of modern rustic to your work and travel look.

In Real Life

Sara: MacBook Charger Wrap

I love that it was handmade by a real person. Because it makes a more attractive organizer piece than you can find anywhere else. Before this I was using a velcro and got lots of hair stuck in it and was nowhere near as attractive as this elegant leather wrap. I also shorten and lengthen the amount of cord I leave out depending on the situation, so whether I’m at home or at a coffee shop.

Paul: Earbud Wrap Case

I got this earbud wrap as a Christmas gift, I’ve never used anything to organize my earbuds before but I gave it a try and have gotten a lot of use out of it. It’s actually nice to throw in my backpack and pull my earbuds out without having to dig around and untangle them for 10 minutes.

Give Her Something She Can Use However She Wants To

For instance, our Airplant Holder isn't just for airplants. It can also be used as an excellent catch-all as you walk in the door, a votive holder if you decide to go the candle route or a lovely sunny window hanging that captures and disperses light into interesting shapes on the wall. You can give the gift with your blessing and then let your mom decide how to use it. As she will anyway.

Give Her Something That Will Last Forever

And no, botox doesn’t fall under this category unfortunately - and it is rather expensive. Instead go for a enduring option made from a different kind of natural material like a journal cover made from quality leather like this one. Leather is an incredibly durable material and will probably come with a lifetime’s use calculating that your mother is old enough to have birthed an individual who is now an adult affluent enough to purchase her luxury gifts.

Something of Sentimental Value

Play to her emotional side with something that really doesn’t have all that much financial cost but is high on sentimental value. When you were a kid you could get away with illiterate poems, flowers stolen from your mother’s yard and uncomplimentary drawings of her in crayon. Why not now? Frame one of her favorite photos and send it over, write a letter telling her how she made you who you are today or enlist a friend to do a photoshoot with just the two of you.

Hedge Your Bets

There is nothing better than a gift basket, because darn it all, she has to like at least one thing in there. Fill it up with chocolate, little candles, soap, notes of adoration, and one big risk. That way if the big gift flops you have all the little things to distract her.

Still Stuck?

Part of the issue we have faced in the past was the sheer amount of leather phone wallets on our website. We literally have hundreds of phone cases to choose from since we make phone wallets for all of the big smartphone makers. But as a customer looking one specific case, say a phone case for the LG G6 - then you may have had to sift through pages and pages of phone cases before you found the one you were looking for.

That is something we have been able to rectify with our new phone case filter. By simply selecting your phone case manufacturer and device name you can now see the 2-3 case options we have for your phone and choose from those in a hassle free process. Watch the video we made below to see how to get the most out of our new phone case search:

Our customization options for the leather phone wallets are also much easier to add on as well. Before, you probably had to go hunting around to add on the extra card slots, engravings and other extras you wanted, but now by simply selecting the Custom phone wallet for your phone type you will see all of those same options you used to have to hunt down right there as drop-down menus on the product.

Go ahead and checkout our new phone selector. A faster, easier way to shop for your next leather phone case.

Ever since the failure and recall of Samsung’s notorious Galaxy Note 7, the pressure has been on for the smartphone giant to recover from their fiery debacle. I wish I was a fly on the wall for those Galaxy S8 R&D meetings - not only does Samsung have to design a battery that will never spontaneously combust but they also have to come to the table with jaw-dropping technological advances for their new flagship. Imagine if history repeated itself, if even one of the new S8 phones lets off a spark Samsung may have to kiss their reputation as reliable smartphone maker goodbye for the foreseeable future.  

But no fear, so far the leaked designs look amazing! The curved screen has nearly swallowed up the phone with teeny weeny bezels at top and bottom maximizing your screen space and providing an elegant curve. The home button has disappeared and purportedly reappeared on the back next to the camera. Besides these superficial changes it has also been reported that Samsung will be debuting their new smart assistant - Bixby. (With a name like that we hope it can double as a butler/valet.) So if the rumors are to be believed it does seem as if we can expect great things from the new Galaxy S8. That’s what happens when you have a giant in the industry with an equally giant thirst to prove themselves and win back their consumers.

Here at Hand and Hide we have been watching the updates carefully so we can have our new Samsung Galaxy S8 phone case design ready to launch at the same time. The S8 is scheduled to be revealed tomorrow in New York and our Galaxy S8 wallet phone case is available now so you can get your order started ahead of time. It takes us about 2 weeks to hand make your phone case in our Portland, OR studio and up to an additional 3-5 days for shipping so get your order started now so you can have it when your Galaxy S8 arrives.

Samsung’s latest design and the general trend that new smartphones seem to be following, however has caused some minor changes here at Hand and Hide. In order to safely secure your phone as we have in the past we have had to alter the leather holders that keep your phone tightly in it’s case. These holders have drastically slimmed down in order to not obscure any part of your screen or ports and cameras. This new holder design needed some extra support so we have started using AirStick microsuction tape in each new Galaxy S8 phone wallet to ensure the same glove-like fit and functionality you expect from us here at Hand and Hide.  

We can’t wait to start making your Galaxy S8 leather phone cases - so as soon as you snag the latest flagship from Samsung, head back here to purchase your new phone case as well.

The winning wager? A cool $6,750.00.

I know right?

We sat down with Jeff Amrhein, designer of this year's bag and founder of Hand and Hide, to hear more about the gala and his experience this year. Below, Girl's Inc council girl Kennedy sings after intermission and models Hand and Hide's leather tote that she helped design. 

Jeff: "With the current political atmosphere, this year’s event felt so much more important.  Donors were more generous than in years past and the purse auctions accelerated much quicker than before. It was a great moment to experience!”

Jeff: “The funds are used to enable more activities and to sponsor more girls in the PNW.  Just witnessing what some of these teenagers are capable of when given the opportunity gives me confidence for the future.”

Jeff: “I was hoping it would raise $4k and optimistic that it might break $6k.”

Jeff: “Actually, after seeing the results of the earlier bags at auction, I knew it would do very well.  But $6.75K is a new record for Hand and Hide!”

Jeff: “Kennedy, the Girls Inc council girl who collaborated with me on the bag design, performed a song during the intermission.  She amazed everyone!  And then our bag was auctioned immediately after that, so there was a lot of excitement about her and the bag.  I also think that the bag, with its henna designs and having hand silhouettes from the whole Hand and Hide team conveyed a message of inclusion, that all lives and all perspectives are important.”

Jeff: “I will continue to participate as long as they’ll have me! I did speak with Girls Inc director Elizabeth Nye and she hoped that I’d be back next year, so things look good for 2018.  As for designs for next year’s bag, I’ll have to wait and see with whom I am teamed.  I am sure we’ll come up with something great!”

Re-Conditioning: Is It Even Necessary?

Here at Hand and Hide we take great pride in the enduring quality of our leather goods. Our processes are carefully managed to ensure the longevity of our products, from our best-selling phone wallet to our bicycle bags. You might be wondering how often you need to re-oil your leather gear, and that really hinges on how frequently your leather is being handled and how old it is.

Intuitively you might think if leather is handled more frequently, that it will need conditioning more often. Surprisingly, it's actually the opposite! The oils found on our hands replace the oils in the leather that has been lost, in a completely natural process. So for frequently handled items such as one of our leather phone cases or wallets, you will find that you do not need to re-oil your leather to keep it supple.

All About the Bags

Leather totes and bike bags may be a different case altogether. We use an oil-tanned leather to make these items so they are oiled and sealed before stitching to ensure the leather is soft and supple. These items will only dry out due to specific conditions like long exposure to the elements or extreme age. If you do find that your leather case or bag has started dry out, whether from natural aging or exposure, then we recommend using a high-quality leather conditioner to keep your leather from cracking or becoming rough.

Make sure the conditioner you use is made specifically for leather and be prepared for it to significantly darken the color of your item. That is why it is important to ensure that you evenly spread it all over the surface or you may end up with some lighter or darker spots. Test a hidden area on the bag with the conditioner first so you know how much it will darken your bag. We use sheep’s wool to apply conditioner here at Hand and Hide which always works beautifully but you can also use a smooth cloth that you don't mind getting dirty.

Only re-condition if you notice that your bag is not as soft or supple as it used to be or if you see a dry spot appear. However, our leather products seldom if ever need to be re-conditioned so only do it if you really feel it needs it.

Keeping your leather gear in top shape is easier than you might think, whether you live in a rainy city like ours or prefer a drier climate to call home. Dry environments (and messy ones) carry their own specific challenges to leather care so we’ll cover those as well. Read below to see how you can maintain the beautiful look and feel of your leather phone wallet, bag or tablet case with proper leather care.

Rainy Days

Water and leather are not what you might call best buddies. When water soaks into leather it can strip away the natural oils that keep leather soft and supple, and leave a few water spots behind as well. If leather loses its natural oiliness it can crack and become brittle. Although our products are water resistant, there is only so much moisture they can take on before the water leaches through to the leather itself. That is why we do not recommend dropping it into bathtubs or pools, taking it with you for a waterfall selfie or exposing your phone case to a torrential downpour while you wait for your Uber. Keep your leather phone case tucked away in your pocket or purse until you’ve safely distanced yourself from the watery disaster waiting to happen. Our goods can withstand some rain drops, but be aware this can cause slight discoloration, or water spots, over time.

Dry Environments

For our friends with Hand and Hide goods in warmer, drier climates leather also stands the risk of becoming dried out. Long exposure to hot, dry air can slowly dry out your leather over time. Just like your skin, leather needs a little bit of moisturizer every once in awhile. Surprisingly, leather is often re-oiled in a completely natural way. Next week we’ll talk more about how to re-oil your leather and offer additional tips on leather maintenance and aging and what you can do to extend the natural beauty and age of your leather goods.