Handmade Excellence and a Lifetime Wallet

JewishJesus7 days ago
Wild Frontier Goods Frontier Bifold WalletKakishibu Hand Painted Shell Cordovan & Natural Buffed Cowhide

Maker

Wild Frontier Goods

Model

Frontier Bifold Wallet

Leather

Purchased from

Wild Frontier Goods

Order info

Cost: 365 USD

Availability: Custom

Lead Time: 3 months

More about this item

Handmade by Mike Falkner. This is a (Shinki?) shell in a rare model that can be painted with natural kakishibu.

Why did you choose this item?

Availability: Custom
Style

I wanted something in shell with some artistry to it, as I’ve only ever owned boring black leather wallets. WFG’s work with natural dyes (especially kakishibu) caught my eye bought for the natural look and patina potential. He has a number of different models, but the bifold seemed best suited to my varied carrying needs. I wanted a matching belt, wallet, and keyring that would pull in the orange hues from my medium brown leather boots (and someday jacket), and I love the way kakishibu gives an almost wooden appearance.

What was the ordering process?

Purchased from Wild Frontier GoodsTotal cost: 365 USD Lead time: 3 months
Direct Message

Reached out to Mike via WFG’s Instagram and shared some past work as inspiration along with the specifics of what I wanted. He was amazing to work with and suggested to switch out the inner leather I’d originally requested with this cowhide to show more patina (and save some money vs natural shell).

Use & wear

Office Work
Physical Work
Outdoor Activities
Leisure
Travel
Cold Temperatures
Hot Temperatures
Dry Climate
Humid Climate
Wet Conditions
Snow

Kept on me across all conditions, in sweaty pockets, cold bags, and everywhere else for my daily use the past 6 months.

Leather

Kakishibu Hand Painted Shell Cordovan
Patina Process
Care Routine
Color Change
Durability

As expected, the cordovan retains incredible shine and luster, with scratches naturally buffing out through use. The crocking provides great contrast against the kakishibu that should keep darkening with sun exposure. No cleaning yet, just some brushing every couple weeks.

Natural Buffed Cowhide
Patina Process
Color Change
Durability

The roughness has started to buff out, and the natural leather is darkening beautifully. My hands run very cold and dry in cooler weather, so not too surprised that there’s still a lot more room for patina.

Craftsmanship

Wild Frontier Goods Frontier Bifold Wallet
Construction
Design
Finishing
Durability
Stitching
Lining
Hardware
Clicking

Hand-cut, painted, and sewn with great skill and a unique, functional design. The wallet compressed down nicely, and it’s really a lovely piece. Mike’s suggestion to pair the Corsican with a more textured, natural leather was great to give it more character. Highly recommend Mike’s work.

Final thoughts

Would Recommend
Good Value

WFG does exceptional work, evidenced through this beautiful, unique wallet. I’m thoroughly enjoying my first truly durable wallet, especially because it’s a great conversation piece and stunning to admire. Considering the expensive materials and labor involved, this piece is priced reasonably. Through the dome, I’ve loved watching my first piece of shell evolve. I knew the patina would be hard-earned, but I’m really pleased with how it’s aging. Now it just needs a week in the sun! :)

Written by JewishJesus
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