ABOUT CORK
Cork fabric, reminiscent of cork floor tiles, champagne corks, pinboards, and the core of cricket balls, is meticulously crafted from the bark of the Cork Oak tree, Quercus suber, native to Spain, Portugal, and France. At the mature age of 25 years, the bark is carefully stripped from the trunk and substantial branches. Unlike other trees, this process doesn't harm the tree; the bark regenerates, soaking up carbon dioxide, ready for another harvest in just nine years. Remarkably, these trees can thrive for up to 200 years, epitomising sustainability.
Following harvest, the cork bark undergoes a six-month air-drying period before being subjected to boiling and steaming. Heat and pressure are then applied to shape it into blocks, later finely shaved into slivers adhered to a cotton or polyurethane backing in a patchwork pattern. The resulting 'fabric' is then dyed or printed in a myriad of colours and styles.
Despite cork's inherent water and dust resistance, a sealant is applied as the final step in fabric production. This not only safeguards against scratching and cracking but also imparts a distinctive luxurious waxy feel to the material.
While cork fabric is a relatively recent addition to the fashion medium, it has proven to be exceptionally versatile. If you're sceptical, you're not alone—I was too at first. Bags and wallets crafted from cork? It may sound unconventional, but it works exceptionally well. Cork's pliability and ease of manipulation make it comparable to working with soft leather or vinyl.
Thanks to its honeycomb structure, cork fabric has considerable strength, resisting tearing, scratching, and marking. Although it will naturally show signs of aging, such as developing a beautiful patina over time, the cork itself won't wear out, ensuring the longevity of your Jamieson Rose cork bag.
Maintaining a cork bag is a breeze—simply wipe it with a damp cloth and mild soap, allowing it to air dry. To preserve vibrant colours, it's advisable to keep your bag out of direct sunlight, avoiding extended exposure in a hot car.
The surprise often expressed by customers is the lightweight nature of cork bags. No one wants a laptop bag heavier than the laptop itself, and cork's weight—or lack thereof—is a distinct advantage. Considering that about 50% of cork's volume is air, it's no wonder these bags are remarkably light!
Another unexpected feature customers tend to adore is the soft feel of cork fabric. Its beautiful texture, layered onto the backing fabric by hand, ensures that no two pieces are exactly alike, adding an extra touch of uniqueness to each piece.