The Ultimate Checklist for Buying Handcrafted Leather Bags on CustomMade

Your Essential Guide to Purchasing Handcrafted Leather Bags on CustomMade

CustomMade is a platform that connects buyers with artisans. When purchasing handcrafted leather bags, it's crucial to verify the seller's authenticity and the quality of the product. This checklist will guide you through the essential steps to a secure and satisfying transaction.

Seller Verification

• ✓ Review the seller's profile thoroughly. Look for an established history, positive reviews, and clear photos of their work.
• ✓ Examine the seller's portfolio. Ensure the featured bags align with the craftsmanship and style described. Be wary of portfolios that seem too generic or inconsistent.
• ✓ Check for any 'Pro' badges or verified artisan marks on CustomMade, which indicate a higher level of vetting.

Product Authenticity & Quality

Handcrafted leather bags are susceptible to 'Material Grade Downselling,' where a lower quality leather is used than advertised. Always inquire about the specific type of leather (e.g., full-grain, top-grain) and tanning process.

Common Scams to Watch For

• ✓ Stolen Artisan Portfolio: Scammers may use images of bags created by legitimate artisans to mislead buyers. Always look for consistency and authenticity in the seller's presented work.
• ✓ Indefinite Production Delay: Be cautious of sellers who provide vague timelines or constantly push back delivery dates without valid explanations. This could indicate they are unable to fulfill the order or are overextended.
• ✓ Off-Platform Deposit Request: Never agree to send deposits or payments outside of the CustomMade platform. This bypasses buyer protection and is a common scam tactic.
• ✓ Sourced-from-China Resell: Some sellers may present mass-produced items from overseas as unique handcrafted pieces. Look for signs of genuine artisanal work and inquire about the origin of materials and the creation process.
• ✓ Material Grade Downselling: As mentioned earlier, verify the exact grade and type of leather used. Sellers might claim 'genuine leather' when it's a lower-quality split or bonded leather.

Secure Payment and Transaction

For high-value handcrafted leather bags, typically those exceeding $500, we strongly recommend using Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for identity verification. This adds an extra layer of security by confirming the identities of both buyer and seller, mitigating risks associated with fraudulent transactions. For more affordable items, the Basic Plan can still offer valuable peace of mind.

Always finalize transactions through CustomMade's secure payment gateway. This ensures your payment is protected until you receive and approve the item.