Moroccan Leather
Moroccan leather is known around the world for its beauty—rich color, incredible durability, and a softness that only improves with time. But what makes it truly special isn’t just the finished product; it’s the centuries-old process behind it.
At Intertwined: Handmade for Good, we partner directly with artisans in Morocco to create one-of-a-kind leather goods that reflect both traditional craftsmanship and thoughtful, modern design.
How Moroccan Leather is Made
Morocco has been producing leather for nearly a thousand years, with some of the most famous tanneries still operating today. The process remains largely unchanged—slow, manual, and deeply rooted in tradition.
Leather is treated using natural materials and time-honored techniques rather than modern chemical shortcuts. Hides are softened, dyed, stretched, and finished entirely by hand. Natural dyes create the rich, saturated tones Moroccan leather is known for, colors that feel layered and alive rather than flat or uniform.
Because of this hands-on process, no two pieces are exactly alike. Each one carries subtle variations that reflect the artisan’s work and the materials themselves.
The Artisans Behind the Leather
At Intertwined, we believe the story behind a product matters just as much as the product itself.
We work directly with Soufiane Belhayl, who sources high-quality leather in Marrakech and collaborates on the design and production of our pieces. This direct relationship allows us to ensure not only quality, but also fairness—something that’s often missing in traditional supply chains.
Unlike many larger brands, we pay artisans 50% upfront and 50% upon completion, helping cover material costs and providing more stability throughout the process.
The Reality of Natural Tanning (Yes . . the Smell)
One of the most common questions about Moroccan leather has nothing to do with how it looks—it’s about how it smells. Traditional tanning methods rely on natural materials, which can create a strong scent at first. It’s a byproduct of the same process that gives the leather its character and durability.
The good news: it doesn’t last. With time and use, the scent fades naturally. If you want to speed things up, simply air your item outside in indirect sunlight. You can also place it in a sealed bag with baking soda for a couple of days, then gently wipe it clean.
👉 (For a deeper dive—and a little more personality—I wrote more about this here: “Stunning with a Side of Temporary Stink.”)
Hand-Stitched Moroccan Leather Bags
Many of our Moroccan leather bags are finished by hand using traditional stitching techniques passed down through generations. In this video, one of Soufiane Berhayl’s partners hand-stitches a kilim weekender bag, guiding each stitch with precision and care.
This same hand-stitching technique is used across many of our styles, including our kilim weekenders, seamed leather totes, and kilim crossbody bags. Unlike machine stitching, hand-stitched leather creates stronger seams, greater durability, and a distinctive, artisan finish.
Each stitch is a reminder that these are not mass-produced bags. They are handcrafted Moroccan leather pieces made to last.
FAQ
What makes Moroccan leather goods unique?
Moroccan leather goods are known for their rich, full-grain leather, traditional craftsmanship, and timeless design. From leather bags to pillow covers, belts, and napkin rings, each piece is made using techniques passed down through generations, resulting in durable, one-of-a-kind items with lasting character.
Are your Moroccan leather products handmade?
Yes—each of our Moroccan leather goods is handcrafted by skilled artisans, including Soufiane Belhayl and his team in Marrakech. From cutting the leather to hand-stitching seams and finishing details, every step is done by hand. (Some seams are done on a simple sewing machine.)
What type of leather is used in your Moroccan leather goods?
We use high-quality, full-grain leather across our Moroccan collection—including bags, pillow covers, belts, and napkin rings. This type of leather retains its natural texture and markings, making each piece unique while ensuring long-lasting durability. Depending on the product, the leather may come from a cow, sheep, or goat.
Are Moroccan leather goods durable for everyday use?
Yes—our Moroccan leather bags, belts, and even home goods like pillow covers and napkin rings are made from durable leather designed to stand up to daily use. With time, the leather softens while maintaining its strength. Full-grain leather is one of the most durable materials available, and with proper care, Moroccan leather goods can last for years, often becoming more beautiful as they age and develop a natural patina.
Are your Moroccan leather goods ethically made?
Yes, we work directly with artisans and pay 50% upfront and 50% upon completion, before products are shipped to the U.S. This approach supports fair working conditions and long-term artisan partnerships.
How should I care for Moroccan leather?
Moroccan leather is low-maintenance, but a few simple steps will help it last for years:
- Allow new pieces to air out if needed
- Keep out of prolonged direct sunlight
- Clean gently with a soft, dry cloth
- Condition occasionally to maintain softness
With time, the leather will develop a beautiful patina unique to your piece.
Why does Moroccan leather sometimes have a strong smell?
Traditional Moroccan leather is tanned using natural materials and centuries-old methods rather than heavy chemical processing. This can create a noticeable scent at first—but it’s a natural byproduct of the same process that gives the leather its durability and character.
The scent fades over time with normal use. You may want to let your item air out in a well-ventilated space or outside in indirect sunlight. If you’d like to speed up the process, you can place the item in a sealed bag with baking soda for 24–48 hours, then gently wipe it clean with a soft cloth.
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