STUDIO

Each item is made individually by a single craftsperson, without production lines. This slow process allows each item to be one-of-a-kind, as handcrafted items have a unique appeal that mass production eliminates. This type of slow manufacturing also supports the longevity of artisan knowledge and handiwork. 

What is Veg-tan?

Taka only works with vegetable-tanned leather. 85% of global leather production is tanned using chrome, a heavy metal that is extremely harmful to the human health and the environment.

Vegetable-tanned leathers are preserved the traditional way using plant matter for the acid tannins (tannings). Veg-tan leather also lasts longer than chrome leather and is a superior product in terms of suppleness, natural sheen and longevity.

PATINA

Patina: the gloss or sheen on a surface resulting from age or polishing.

A patina can only evolve naturally from vegetable-tanned leather. It is one of the few materials that becomes more beautiful with time, developing character and a rich patina  with use, darkening naturally from sunlight, moisture and wear patterns.

The patination of leather is the direct result of the activities of the wearer. In this sense each shoe  or bag starts as a blank canvas and becomes a reflection of the lifestyle patterns of it's owner.

This process is inimitable: the more the piece is worn, the more it reflects the story of its wearer. 

UNDYED

We prioritize working with Undyed fibers and leather because it show the true quality of the material without covering it up. This minimal processing also avoids extra chemicals, as most dyes and color we see today is the result of petrochemical processing and unnecessary resource waste.

Undyed isn’t a single color, it’s the raw color of the primary material. We work with Undyed leather, linen, cotton, palm fronds and reeds. These colors range from cream to dark tan, depending on the fiber. This color scheme is alive, and shifts according to air, moisture, light and patterns of use. 

LOCALITY