Know your worth—

Why We Choose Full Grain & Top Grain Leather

You’ve probably seen the words “genuine leather” on everything from wallets and belts to furniture and bags. It sounds like a quality guarantee. But it really only tells you one thing: the material is leather.

“Genuine leather” can refer to leather made from lower layers of the hide that have been heavily processed, sanded, split, embossed, coated, or finished to create a certain look. The quality can vary significantly. That’s one reason you can buy two products both labeled “genuine leather” and have completely different experiences with them.

At One of a Kinn, we prefer to be more specific. We use quality full grain and top grain leather, because we want you to know what you’re getting.

— Full grain leather comes from the strongest outer portion of the hide and retains its natural grain. It can show natural markings and variations, develops character and patina with age, and is known for its strength and durability.

— Top grain leather is also high quality. The surface may be lightly refined for a more consistent appearance, while still retaining much of the hide’s natural strength and character.

For a large manufacturer producing thousands of identical products, consistency and efficiency can be important.

For us, the imperfections are part of the point.

We handcraft our pieces in small quantities, using quality leather that has its own natural character. No two hides are exactly alike, and no two pieces we make will ever be completely identical.

We want it to get better with time. That’s the difference between something that simply carries the label “leather” and something made with leather we’re proud to put our name on.

Want to learn more about leather quality?
We recommend this helpful guide from Theodore Leather Essentials: Understanding Leather Quality: What Actually Separates Premium Leather – TheodoreLeather

Meet Michelle Kinn

One of a Kinn is the work of Michelle Kinn, a Navy veteran with a passion for creating things by hand.

Before leather became her craft, Michelle spent years working with wood. Her love of building, working with her hands, and turning raw materials into something useful eventually led her to leatherwork. What started as a creative outlet grew into something much bigger.

Formerly known as MK Crafts, Michelle began taking her handcrafted leather goods to craft fairs and local events, where her work quickly found an audience.

Today, One of a Kinn carries that same commitment to craftsmanship. Every piece is hand-stitched, never sewn by machine, using carefully selected full-grain and top-grain leather. Each piece is made with patience, attention to detail, and the goal of creating something you'll enjoy for years to come.

No mass production. No shortcuts. Just honest, handcrafted leatherwork made by Michelle.

One of a Kinn is proudly woman-owned and LGBTQ+ friendly. Michelle believes everyone should feel welcome and that individuality is something to be celebrated, both in the people we meet and in the things we carry.

Hand-Stitched Leather, Made to Last

At One of a Kinn, craftsmanship starts with the materials. Michelle works primarily with full-grain and top-grain leather, chosen for its durability, natural character, and ability to develop a beautiful patina over time.

Her work can include everything from cow and buffalo leather to unique materials such as snakeskin, bringing different textures and personalities to each piece.

But the materials are only part of the process. Every stitch is done by hand. There are no sewing machines behind the work. Just time, patience, and attention to the details that make each piece unique.

From leather wallets and purses to backpacks and guitar straps, One of a Kinn is about creating leather goods that aren't mass-produced or made to be disposable. They're made to be used, enjoyed, and kept for years to come.

Find One of a Kinn in Person

One of a Kinn is currently available in person at craft fairs and local events rather than through an online store. Come meet Michelle, see her handcrafted leather goods up close, and experience the craftsmanship for yourself.