Sonnenleder Pencil Case "Hawel" black

The Hawel by Sonnenleder is a writing case crafted from South German cow leather, made entirely by hand and traditionally vegetable-tanned in Germany using pit tanning. Pit tanning – one of the oldest leather tanning methods in existence – creates a lively, breathable surface with a characteristic, warm leather aroma. The leather feels supple from the outset and develops a unique patina over time, with rain, sun and warmth leaving their mark on the surface. Each piece is a one-of-a-kind creation thanks to the natural grain of the hide.

Features

• Cow leather from South German hides, vegetable-tanned exclusively using traditional pit tanning – a process that forgoes chromium salts and produces leather that remains firm and supple for years.
• Main compartment for writing instruments up to 14 cm in length – fountain pens, ballpoints and standard-length mechanical pencils fit securely.
• Additional slip pocket, ideal for stamps, sticky notes, business cards or small scraps of paper.
• Flap closure with press stud – keeps contents secure, opens with one hand.
• German-made rubber webbing holds writing instruments firmly in place within the main compartment without stressing the leather.
• Entirely handmade in Germany – colour and texture variations are natural leather characteristics, not defects.

Use & Tips

• Well-suited for fountain pens up to 14 cm in body length (without cap attached) – shorter models with a clip can also be secured safely.
• The slip pocket is perfect for daily essentials: a folded to-do list, a stamp for on the go, or a few sticky notes as a memory aid.
• To care for the leather, occasionally apply a thin layer of colourless leather grease – this keeps the surface supple and develops the patina evenly.
• Occasional moisture causes less long-term damage to vegetable-tanned leather than frequent dryness – the odd raindrop contributes to the patina, though prolonged wetness should be avoided.
• The case works as a compact bag-within-a-bag solution: writing instruments and your most-used notes in one place, within reach and protected.

For Leather Enthusiasts

Pit tanning is the most time-consuming vegetable tanning process: hides remain for months in pits filled with natural tanning solutions made from tree bark such as oak or spruce. Unlike faster continuous processes, the tannin penetrates the leather evenly and deeply, creating a particularly dense, firm fibre structure. This leather shows clean edges when creased, absorbs care products well, and develops glossy patches rather than scuffing in response to everyday wear. The Hawel's surface is left untreated enough to make ink marks or pressure spots visible – those who love a case that records their daily life will appreciate this quality.

Technical Specifications