Italian Leather Gloves

 Ah.. the trademark of luxury ! This company who's factory is just down the road from my house has been providing this plush and elegant option since 1927 and they still do it much the same today as they had nearly 100 years ago. They make gloves for Gucci, Talbots, and even have made a few pairs for the first lady for both of the inaugural balls. I was fortunate enough to take a tour and see how it is made. Also to buy at a discount!

This is what all the leather looks like when it comes into the factory. This very light blue color.

The machines used here are the originals. We were told at one point in time they tried to update them, but the workers said they liked the old ones better and the stitches were just nicer. So they kept the old machines and just repair them and keep them oiled.

 This is the process of dying the leather. We were told if you are going to buy a nice pair of leather gloves you should buy light colors. They choose the less perfect leather to die dark to help hide the imperfections.

Love all the hand cut outs! This is how the leather is cut into the right shape. It is press cut with a machine and very sharp templates. Can you see the different sizes on the glove templates?

The day we visited they were working on an order for the Italian Military and were making large stacks of these black gloves! Spoiled if you ask me!

Here is a stack of gloves being flattened and pressed the oldest way possible. This helps them lay flat before sewing, and makes them easier to match up edges in the end.

 This gentle man is stretching the Leather after it had been dyed. This helps it become soft and supple instead of crispy and hard from the dye.

 From these piles of simple leather comes some beautiful and soft and cashmere lined gloves!
I hope I move some place cold next!