The Importance of Keeping Maker Skills & Craftsmanship Alive 

In a world of mass production, where one is constantly jumping from one trend to the next, craftsmanship is a breath of fresh air. It is a rebellion against mediocre production and mindless consumption. A doorway to creating a conscious lifestyle, one that serves us and our planet. 

At Thread and Tonic, we are believers of craftsmanship. Our community of artisans and craftsmen (and women) span across Italy and India. 

What is craftsmanship? 

Craftsmanship is the dedicated pursuit of a skill by an artisan or maker. It takes years to master. The artisan starts young as an apprentice. Through the years with hard work and practice he or she hones the skill. This is why the pieces handcrafted by an artisan carry a lot of value.

During such uncertain times, we believe that it's more important than ever to preserve craftsmanship and maker skills. 

Below we've listed a few reasons why craftsmanship and maker skills should be kept alive in modern times.

Craftsmanship is Attention to Detail 

Craftsmanship is the dedicated pursuit of a skill by an artisan or maker. It takes incredible patience and attention to detail to master the skill. The artisan starts young as an apprentice. Through the years with hard work and practice he or she hones the skill. This is why the pieces handcrafted by an artisan carry a lot of value. 

At Thread and Tonic, each of our pieces is handcrafted by our team of experienced craftspeople. There is an incredible attention to detail given to every piece. From tanning and color processing to weaving, seaming and polishing, each step is carefully executed. 

Every step of the way, we obsess over the smallest of details. From the zips we use to the way our retractable handles work. Each element has been heavily researched and vigorously tested by our makers and artisans.  

It’s a considered process that takes time and effort. And it is never to be rushed. 

That’s why we only produce very small batches of our leather products. And a reason why our products last for many years. 

Craftsmanship means quality 

True craftsmanship is an eternal promise to quality. A conscious brand always chooses to work with artisans who deliver the highest standards of quality. 

At Thread and Tonic, our dedication to quality is paramount – right from sourcing materials to design to production, and finally, packaging. 

The materials we use are fundamental to the longevity and functionality of our products. We source the highest-grade materials – pure, chrome-free leather from Italy, the strongest grade of thread, tactile organic linings and precision zips. 

We vigilantly test all materials and constructions. Hence, we can assure the longevity of each luxury piece so that you can have confidence in buying from us.

Craftsmanship is unique 

At Thread & Tonic, we love to work with artisans and craftsmen who are experts in their craft. Because the end result is always unique. No two leather pieces look exactly the same. And that's their beauty. 

Our artisans and craftspeople spend years honing and fine-tuning their technique. They know the ins and outs of every material they work with in the process. With their skillful dexterity and craftsmanship, they can bring the materials to life. Give them a new shape, form and function. 

The result is a unique piece of wallet, laptop sleeve, backpack or card holder that exudes originality and makes you feel special being the rightful owner of a timeless masterpiece. 

Craftsmanship Boosts Our Economy 

When a big brand chooses to work with the craftsmen and artisan community, it is not just keeping an age-old tradition alive, but also boosting the entire regional and national economy.

At Thread & Tonic, we work with numerous tanneries across India and Spain. Our production team is made with local craftsmen and artisans, often from underprivileged communities who have kept the skill alive for generations. 

When you order a luxury leather piece from Thread & Tonic, you are supporting the artisan community, and in turn, boosting the Indian economy. Besides, you are giving the artisans confidence to teach the skills to their children. Hence, keep the craft alive for future generations! 

Craftsmanship is heritage 

Craftsmanship plays an integral role in preserving the heritage and keeping centuries-old techniques alive… that would otherwise have been forgotten by the modern world. 

Simon Sadinsky, Deputy Executive Director of Education at The Prince’s Foundation says – 

"Craft is about connection – to nature, to one’s place and to oneself. It is about connecting the past to the present, while looking towards the future." 

People love to buy handcrafted objects because they tell stories and connect us to our past.

For this reason, it is essential to nurture a new generation of artisans and makers for the continuation of craft for generations to come. For this, we need to provide young minds with proper training, support and resources. 

At Thread & Tonic Foundation, we provide free skill-based training, support and guidance to the children of our artisans. This way, we ensure that the future generations have an equal opportunity to continue their quest for mastery of craft.  

Craftsmanship is a Pursuit of Perfection 

Last but not least, craftsmanship is a relentless pursuit of beauty and mastery.

Every accessory - be it a bag or wallet or cardholder - has been handcrafted by a group of artisans for hours and hours. For the craftsmen, it's their continued dedication to their craft that results in such unique pieces that are not just beautiful but bespoke. 

Owning a wallet or bag that is lovingly crafted by an artisan is like owning a piece of art. It can take your breath away. And it is timeless (in fact, it only gets better with age). These luxury items are made with great patience, passion and pride by the artisans in a way that will bring joy to those who own them.