Bespoke Leather Goods Sale Agreement

What a good one includes

• Detailed material and design specifications, including leather type, color, hardware finishes, and precise measurements or sizing details.
• A non-refundable deposit clause that covers the immediate cost of sourcing premium materials and initial pattern drafting.
• An organic materials disclaimer explaining that natural markings, slight color variations, and minor scars are inherent characteristics of high-quality leather and not defects.
• A clearly defined process for fittings, approvals, and design revisions, stating exactly how many changes are allowed before additional fees apply.
• Realistic production timelines and delivery estimates, including terms that protect you from liability for shipping delays or supply chain issues with specialty tanneries.
• A clause clarifying that the artisan retains the intellectual property rights and design patterns, even for fully customized commissions.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Failing to require a non-refundable deposit, which leaves you financially responsible for expensive hides if the customer backs out mid-production.
• Omitting precise measurements or fit tolerances, leaving you vulnerable to refund demands if a client claims a custom shoe or bag doesn't fit exactly as they imagined.
• Neglecting to educate the client in writing about natural leather variations, resulting in disputes over organic scars, range marks, or dye lot differences.
• Allowing unlimited design changes after work has begun, which stalls your workshop schedule and eats away at your profit margins.

Frequently asked questions