Natural Cork Backpack Medium

This vegan backpack is handcrafted in our South Devon workshop from the highest quality upholstery grade cork ‘leather’ and solid brass saddlery fittings. This backpack is a substantial size accommodating all of the essentials and more. It features a simple nickel plated brass snap hook fastening for secure and easy access. There is a press stud fastening with two adjustments on either side to allow for extra width along the top if required. This bag is lined with a durable organic cotton canvas and has an interior zip pocket. It also has fully adjustable belt style straps. Cork is regarded as one of the most sustainable and eco friendly materials available. As well as it’s eco credentials it also has many other qualities such as strength, excellent water resistance and it is extremely light-weight. Available in natural, mustard, red and brown. What is Cork? Cork is the outer bark of the Cork Oak tree (Quercus Suber). It’s made of water resistant cells that separate the outer bark from the delicate interior bark. Cork is stripped from the tree without causing any harm, in fact, harvesting helps the tree to enter a regeneration process, which extends its lifespan in the long-term making cork a truly sustainable material. How is Cork ‘Leather’ Made? Once removed from the tree the cork is left to dry out for six months. After this period the cork is boiled in water to enhance it’s elasticity. It is then shaved into very thin sheets and layered onto a woven fabric backing using non toxic glue. Finally a non-toxic sealant is applied. What are the Benefits of Cork ‘Leather’? A natural material 100% plant based vegan textile Produces no waste in extraction, processing, or production Recyclable Waterproof Sustainable Stain resistant Light-weight Durable How Durable is Cork ‘Leather’? Cork fabric is often compared to leather regarding it’s durability, due to it’s chemical make-up and honeycomb structure cork is highly abrasion resistant. It is also naturally waterproof and stain resistant. As with any material there are varying grades of cork fabric which is why after an extensive search we have sourced a premium upholstery grade of cork fabric that has undergone rigorous durability tests. Cork is simple to clean with mild soapy water. Interior – Black organic cotton canvas Solid nickel plated brass buckles and fittings