ESCARO ROYALE
THE ART OF AUTHENTIC HAND PATINA
Derived from the Italian word "patinare," meaning "to skid" or "to become skid-proof," hand patina is an intricate coloring technique applied to leather surfaces, rendering each pair of shoes a unique and personalised work of art.
The art of hand patina, for us, is more than a process — it is dialogues between artisans and materials, dances of colors that transform leathers into living canvases. With each pair, we share pieces of these artistic journeys, inviting others to walk in shoes that bear the marks of carefully crafted narratives.
The art of authentic hand patina
THE PROCESS
THE MAGIC BEGINS HERE
Embarking on the creation of hand-patinated shoes, we unfold a journey where craftsmanship, creativity, and an intimate connection with leather converge. As we delve into this artisanal process, the steps unfold like a carefully choreographed dance, each movement contributing to the unique stories etched onto the leather canvases.
#1
SELECTING THE BEST FULL-GRAIN WHITE CRUST KNOWN TO MAN
First, we carefully select untreated leather, pristine foundations awaiting transformation. We conduct meticulous inspections, scrutinizing the leather for imperfections, ensuring that the final patinas will be applied to flawless canvases.
At Escaro Royale, we only use Grade-A Full Grain Argentinian White Crust for our shoes, bags and wallets.
#2
PRIMING THE LEATHER WITH BASE DYES AND OILS
Once the hides are selected, shoes and bags are made with it and sole is attached. The product is white at this time and undergo rituals of cleaning and sanding. These are preludes to the main acts, ways of preparing the stages for the dances of colors that soon unfold. Brushes, sponges, and our hands become instruments of expression as we apply the initial base colors, setting the tones for the patinas' narratives.
#3
blending colors with artisanal touches
Layer after layer, we build upon the canvases, blending colors with artisanal touches. This is where the true artistry lies — in the subtle nuances that arise from the careful mingling of hues. The drying times between each layer are not just pauses; they are breaths, allowing the colors to settle, harmonize, and come alive.
#4
Polishing and Buffing
Polishing and buffing follow, bringing forth subtle sheens that enhance the vibrancies of the colors. It's a delicate balance between shine and subtlety, testaments to the craftsmanship invested in each pair or each bag. Hand-buffing, our personal touches, adds final strokes to the masterpieces.
#5
ApplYING the "AGING EFFECT"
To simulate the passages of time, the shoes are subjected to controlled conditions or aging agents are applied, encouraging the developments of patinas that evolve with wear. These are nods to the natural processes that give leather its characters and depths.
#6
FINAL BUFFING AND POLISHING
The final polishing are moments of anticipation and pride. Each pair is scrutinized for perfect patina, and any imperfections are addressed with the precision of restorers. The results aren't just pairs of shoes; they are wearable pieces of art, unique expressions of our creativity and dedication.
The fruit of labor
THE BEAUTY REVEALED
The steps reveal a beautiful product that has gone through layers of colors and polishing - showing a vintage "used" look with soot and burnishes. A well made authentic hand-patina product indeed.