Ecological commitment

Furs, Materials and Origin

Opossum

Tongaporutu, North IslandThe New Zealand brushtail opossum (Trichosuurus vulpecula) a luxurious fur which is beautiful and soft to feel. This nocturnal marsupial was introduced to New Zealand native forests from Australia about 150 years ago. The opossum has decimated huge tracts of New Zealand native flora eating 20,000 tons of vegetation nightly and preys on New Zealands defenceless native fauna (including the Kiwi). Limiting opossum numbers helps to protect our beautiful New Zealand flora and fauna from destruction and extinction. The opossum fur fibre has similarities to mink.  

• www.doc.govt.nz
• www.forestandbird.org.nz
• www.ulva.co.nz

NZ Curly & Sheared Baby Lambskin

Sheared baby lambskin, also known as Broadtail lambskin, in appearance is lustrous with a curly wave and is one of the worlds softest and lightest double face leathers. The startling beauty of these gorgeous products is derived from the casualties of nature.

NZ curly baby Lambskin in appearance is due to the beautiful natural curl of the wool.

The Lambskins are from different sheep breeds  within New Zealand. The first sheep were transported to New Zealand by Captain Cooks voyage about 240 years ago. Sheep farming is the main form of pastoral agriculture and is prized for its wool.

Red Fox

The European red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is a long-haired fur that owes its beauty to the natural markings, which are used in the design process to create a one off original. The Red fox was released in Victoria, Australia about 140 years ago. These animals have played a major role in the decline and extinction of many native species of ground dwelling mammals. Foxes are also an agricultural threat as they prey on lambs and other domesticated livestock.

Haircalf

Stewart IslandIn their natural form, these skins are so beautifully marked to provide a true original piece of art, to any handbag created.The beauty of these gorgeous calf skin products is derived from the casualties of nature. The first cattle were transported to New Zealand about 150 years ago for domesticated farming, from English and Scottish stock.

Nappa Leather

Nappa Leather is a soft, full grain leather produced from deer skin and is a by product. The Red Deer was transported to New Zealand about 150 years ago and is known to cause damage to native vegetation and forestry plantations. Deer have also been domesticated as farming stock.

Furs and specialty leathers

These are available in natural tones and in many fashion colours or can be dyed to meet customers requirements. www.slinkskins.co.nz

Shell Fabric

Paua & Abalone Pearl

Catlins, South IslandPaua shell (Haliotis iris) is lustrous and vibrantly coloured, paua shell comes from Abalone, which is only found in the seas surrounding New Zealand. Abalone Pearl is found in the seas of the Pacific. www.oceanshellnz.com

The shell is processed onto cloth and laser-cut to provide flexibility.

Wooden Handles

Rimu or Red Pine (dacrydium cupressinum) is a New Zealand forest tree that grows to the height of 50 metres (165ft). Heart Rimu is beautiful, durable and resists rot. www.teara.govt.nz

Our wooden handles have had high quality wood oil applied; the natural oil from your hand will increase the lustrous appearance of the wood. Our wooden handles are made by hand by a quality local craftsman. 

Pewter Brooches

These hand moulded Pewter accessories are designed and made by a quality local craftsman.

Bamboo Handles

The handles used in our designs are made from imported bamboo. They have a lacquer finish applied and are made by a quality local craftsman.

Velvet

Velveteen-100% cotton.

Silk velvet-100% silk.

Silk/viscose velvet-30% silk, 70% viscose velvet.

Oil Skin Fabric

8oz 100% waxed cotton fabric.

Photography Credits

My special thanks go to two wonderful photographers.

Home page product slideshow photography by Mel Blowes, www.blackswandesigns.co.nz

Home page Model photography by Giora Dan, www.gioradan.com.