Cork Purses – Earth and Animal Friendly ‘Leather’
Cork harvesting has been a way of life in Mediterranean Europe for at least 1000 years. The ancient cork forests stretch along the southern Mediterranean coast from Italy to Portugal with individual cork trees living up to 600 years. Cork harvesting is one of the planet’s best examples of a sustainable agro-forestry system where people conserve their natural resources, without disturbing or destroying the environment.
The bark of the cork tree is harvested from the tree without injury. A mature cork tree can have its cork bark harvested every nine years, regenerating itself with no harm to the tree.
You may know cork for its use in win bottle stoppers, but have you ever considered cork purses? Cork Design carries some of the most unique bags I’ve seen, made from cork. Water and fire-resistant, the cork purses have a feeling similar to nubuck suede, but are cruelty-free. They’re super lightweight, as well.
My personal favorite purse is the Toggle – I received mine in the tiger pattern. To say it is adorable is an understatement, even my husband loves it. This particular purse has a zip pocket on the inside, as well as a cellphone pocket.
I took the purse with me when we went to visit family in CT. My mom loved it, she had to keep rubbing it because she loved how soft it feels. Even my brother thought it was cool. I did get caught in the rain with it a couple of times, and, despite the water-resistant claim, I was worried it would suffer water stains or leak. It didn’t do either, and still looks brand new.
Cork Design’s purses range in price from $35 for the change purse and $95-$185 for all other purses. Don’t let the prices discourage you – these purses definitely give you that feeling that they will last for a long time to come. I’m not the most gentle person when it comes to clothing and accessories, and I’ve had mine for about 2 months now, and it still looks brand new! If you knew me, you’d understand why that means a lot.
Cork Design also carries other products created from cork – placemats, belts, aprons, wallets, ties, and more.
