Our Sustainability Practices

At Castillo Heritage Crafts, sustainability isn’t just an afterthought. As a leathercrafter and toolmaker, I believe in honoring materials, minimizing waste, and creating products that last. Here’s how that commitment shows up in the workshop every day.

Responsible Leather Sourcing

All leather used in my goods comes from hides that are byproducts of the meat industry. These hides already exist as part of the food supply chain, and without leathercraft, they would be discarded. By transforming them into long‑lasting goods, we help reduce waste and extend the use of a material that would otherwise be thrown away.

I also prioritize veg‑tanned leather, a traditional tanning method that uses natural plant extracts instead of many harsh chemicals. It’s more environmentally friendly, ages beautifully, and supports a slower, more responsible approach to craftsmanship.

Waste Reduction in the Workshop

Every leather hide has unique shapes and edges, some of which aren't always ideal for finished and sold products. Instead of discarding offcuts, I turn them into small goods, prototypes, and test pieces. This ensures that as much of each hide as possible is put to meaningful use.

While making my acrylic leathercraft tools, I tightly group my cuts to ensure the maximum usage of each acrylic sheet. Any scraps are repurposed into smaller tools, templates, and leather stamps, keeping usable material out of the trash.

Mindful Packaging

Plastic packaging has been reduced, opting instead for recyclable or reusable materials. Bubble wrap or bags may be used for particularly fragile items, but paper packing materials will be used whenever possible.

Craftsmanship That Lasts

Sustainability isn’t only about materials - it's the core of leathercraft. Each item is a timepiece, an homage to durability that can be passed down to the next generation if treated well. My leather goods are made of strong materials, and my acrylic tools are built thick to reduce the need to replace and waste plastic.