Sonnenleder pencil case "Lenz" black

The "Lenz" writing case from Sonnenleder is a handcrafted leather case for nine writing instruments – including a generous loop for a fountain pen. Both the outer material and inner lining are made of purely vegetable-tanned calf nappa leather from southern Germany, processed using traditional pit tanning. From the first touch, the leather is warm, grippy, and slightly rough – with a characteristic, authentic leather scent that is typical of this tanning method.

Special Features

• Vegetable pit tanning from southern German cattle hides: The leather is tanned exclusively with vegetable tanning agents (tannins) in a pit – a process that takes several months and produces leather with a particularly vibrant, breathable surface. Chromium or synthetic chemicals are not used.
• Vibrant patina over time: Heat, moisture, and sunlight change the leather's surface over months and years – the case darkens irregularly and develops an individual patina. No two Lenz cases look the same after two years.
• Leather inner lining: The inner lining is also made of leather – the pens are protected and rest in the loops without abrasive plastic or textile contact.
• 9 loops with German rubber bands: Eight loops for pens up to 17 cm long, one more spacious loop for a fountain pen – the rubber web bands keep pens tight and rattle-free. An additional flap accommodates erasers, sharpeners, or USB sticks.
• Ruler slot under the fountain pen loop: Under the wide fountain pen loop, a short ruler can be inserted flat – integrated space-saving without an additional flap.
• Polished metal zipper: The polished metal zipper runs smoothly and effortlessly; it reliably protects the pens during transport.
• Pure craftsmanship: Each case is individually handmade – seams, loops, and edge finishing show the typical, vibrant traces of artisanal production.

Use & Tips

• For the daily desk: The combination of a fountain pen loop and eight additional loops is ideal for organizing a complete writing set – a fountain pen, ink pen, pencils, and a mechanical pencil fit side by side without scratching each other.
• Transport protection for delicate nibs: The all-around zipper keeps the case fully closed – no pen rolls out of the backpack or bag, and no nib gets damaged.
• Breaking in: New Sonnenleder leather is initially still somewhat stiff. With regular use, you'll notice how the leather becomes softer and more supple over time. A thin layer of natural leather fat (e.g., beeswax-based) after the first few weeks nourishes the surface and supports patina formation.
• Moisture is no problem – but handle it consciously: Vegetable-tanned leather absorbs and releases moisture. After a wet journey, let the case dry flat, not in direct heat – this way the leather retains its shape.
• Store fountain pens safely: The spacious fountain pen loop accommodates bulkier models; if you transport a fountain pen with a converter or piston filler, store it cap-up so no ink marks transfer to the leather.

For Leather Craftsmanship Enthusiasts

The traditional pit tanning that Sonnenleder uses for the "Lenz" differs fundamentally from today's dominant chrome tanning. In pit tanning, hides are immersed in tanning liquor made from vegetable tannins – derived from oak or spruce bark – over many months, gradually pre-tanned in what is called the colour bath and then finish-tanned in the vat. The result is leather with a high tannin content, firm structure, and an open, unsealed surface – breathable, chrome-free, and without plastic coating. This open surface is precisely why the leather reacts to moisture, heat, and touch and builds its patina: it is not a static material, but a living one.

Technical Data