I love making belts.

Perhaps, because I know it’s one of those items someone may put on every day. Therefore, it has the potential to become their favourite accessory. And, anything that gets to fall into the ‘favourite’ category is something that is truly loved.

A well worn and loved belt could tell a thousand stories about their adventures with just one person.

If only they could write…wouldn’t that be fun.

When you choose to purchase a belt from trace of grey designs…you are truly making an excellent choice for quality, uniqueness and timeless style.

Each belt that I make is crafted one at a time, with great care and attention to detail.

I will slightly distress the leather to give it a bit of character and personality, but if your preference is a smooth, clean, non-distressed look, I am happy to accommodate your aesthetic.

After this, any initials, words or phrases would be embossed into the leather.

I have a collection of old metal press letters that I use. One at a time, mixing and matching fonts, I hammer the letters into the leather and they leave a gorgeous imprint.

Now I am ready to apply the dye. I often mix and layer various shades together until I achieve the final colour I am going for. Even for a black belt, I do this. I find the colour becomes that much richer and lasts longer too. Then, I may decide to add rivet or stitch detail…subtle design decisions that can add an extra pop of style.

The next step is to completely seal the dye with an acrylic resolene, which also acts as a water proofer.

Finally, I burnish the edges and underside, which gives the belt a super smooth feel in your hands.

Voila! You now have a one of a kind, hand made, leather belt that will last you for many many years.

the details

• hand dyed saddle tan. The antique finish creates a vibrant rusty orange finish.

• 1 1/4” square, brushed copper coloured buckle

• belt sized at 35”, this the centre of 5 holes, spread 1 1/2” apart

• black rivets

• final belt width is 1 1/4”

• My leather of choice is a premium Italian, 9-10 oz leather, named Maremma.

  This is 100% vegetable tanned leather made in Tuscany.