Artisanal vs. Synthetic Leather Bag: Price and Durability Comparison

Handcrafted leather bag vs. synthetic. We analyze the key differences between the two, and there’s no comparison: we recommend the first option.

In this comparison of handcrafted leather bags vs. synthetic ones, we clear up some confusion about genuine leather bags. They are cheaper than so-called faux leather bags because they last longer and offer more sustainable, sensible fashion.

The choice between a handcrafted leather bag and a faux leather bag also called vegan leather, faux leather or synthetic leather, among other labels) is not just a matter of price. It is also about quality, durability, exclusivity, and environmental and social impact. So we are going to take various factors into account, including the price of a handmade leather bag and their durability, to contrast them with the synthetic handbags.

At first glance, a faux leather bag seems cheaper, but is it really? To answer this question, we analyze the key differences between both types of bags and what lies behind their production.

We do it in a direct and clear way, with indicative figures so the issue is easy to understand. And here’s a preview of the conclusion: what seems cheap is actually more expensive underneath and, on top of that, makes the problems created by the fast fashion (fast fashion), a proposal for frenzied, compulsive consumption, which in recent years has been opposed by the movement slow fashion (slow/sustainable fashion).

We like this last option and recommend it to you, in the words of visionary designer Vivienne Westwood: "Buy less, choose well, make it last."

Differences Between Handmade Leather and Synthetic Leather

The first major difference between the two types of bags is the material they are made from. The difference is crucial, and you should not be misled by labels that, as we said at the beginning, try to pass off materials that are not leather as leather. In bags, leather is animal-based, or it is not leather.

Craft leather (genuine leather)

The natural leather comes from tanning animal hides and can last for decades if treated and cared for  adequately. There are different types, but the highest quality is full-grain leather, which is the top layer of the hide, preserving the natural grain, beauty, and its best qualities.

• Durability: it withstands the test of time and develops a patina that enhances its beauty over the years.
• Durability: it does not crack or peel, as happens with synthetic materials.
• Breathability: allows air to pass through, preventing bad odors and internal moisture.
• Sustainability: it is a byproduct of the food industry and, with vegetable tanning, it is more eco-friendly than plastics.

Synthetic leather (eco-leather, faux leather, vegan leather, etcetera)

The synthetic leather It is an artificial material made mostly from plastics such as polyurethane (PU) or PVC, designed to imitate leather. It is often presented as an "eco-friendly" alternative, but it is not: its production depends entirely on petroleum derivatives.

• Limited durability: it tends to wear out, peel, or crack in a short time.
• No aging well: while natural leather improves over the years, synthetic leather deteriorates easily.
• No ventilation: it can cause odors and moisture inside.
• Environmental impact: it is not biodegradable and its manufacturing generates polluting microplastics.

 Some of the steps for crafting a handmade leather bag.

Industrial production versus handcrafted manufacturing

The differences between the two manufacturing methods are enormous. And their repercussions are not only aesthetic, but also affect important matters.

Handcrafted leather bag

• Made in small local workshops that comply with local labor and environmental standards and use handcrafted processes that ensure quality and attention to detail.
• Unique designs and limited editions, avoiding market saturation and overexposure.
• Top-quality materials, with natural tanning and responsible production.

Industrial faux leather bag

• Series production in low-cost factories, often in countries with poor working conditions and limited environmental regulation.
• Standardized, personality-free designs, with products that are practically identical in every store.
• Use of synthetic materials, very cheap zippers and metal details, as well as polluting adhesives and chemicals to maximize profitability.

A relevant fact about all this. According to Fashion Revolution, an international organization that has been around for 10 years, is present in 70 countries, and proposes a Responsible and sustainable fashion: “93% of fast fashion brands cannot prove that their workers receive a living wage.”

Real comparison: cost of a handcrafted leather bag and a faux leather one

Let's consider an example. A faux leather tote bag, like the ones you can find in countless stores and that costs 50 euros, compared to a natural leather tote that costs 250 euros. We estimate the first to last 1 year and the second 10 years, based on realistic and statistically sound data.

At first glance, the faux leather bag is more affordable. However, when we analyze the The durability of a handcrafted leather bag and other factors, things change.

In 10 years, buying a cheap bag every year amounts to a total investment of 500€, while a single handcrafted bag that lasts 10 years costs 250€. 

We can say, then, that the €250 tote is half as expensive as the 10 synthetic bags. What seemed cheaper can, over time, turn out to be much more expensive.

The faux leather bag has also created a huge amount of waste over these 10 years from bags that have broken, plus the pollution generated by manufacturing the 10 bags. This doesn't happen with the handcrafted leather bag.

The initial investment in a genuine leather bag The upfront cost is higher, but in the long run it's the smarter purchase.

As the great designer Tom Ford said: "True luxury is understanding the quality of materials and craftsmanship".

Tote Maxi, in cowhide leather with a crocodile embossing. The handcrafted construction of a leather tote like this involves hup to three hours of expert work.

Choose with confidence

If you're looking for a bag to get you by and swap out every season, a faux leather bag it may seem enough.

If you prefer quality, durability, and a more sustainable purchase, a handcrafted leather bag is the best option.

The difference is not just in the price, but in how long you will enjoy it and in the impact you create in the world with your choice.

En Juan-JoEach bag is designed to last, crafted from high-quality leather and using an artisanal process that respects the materials and the craft. That is why we like to remember this phrase by Salvatore Ferragamo: "Elegance and durability go hand in hand when it comes to leather".

Explore our collection of handcrafted leather bags here