These days,“Made in the USA” can mean just about anything.
At Holtz Leather Co., we believe in real American craftsmanship. But how can you, the buyer, tell what’s truly made in the USA and what just claims to be?
Here are five simple ways to spot the Real Thing.
1. Look Closer Than The Label
By law, “Made in the USA” should mean that all or nearly all parts and labor come from within the country. But some brands stretch the truth. A wallet might be sewn together in the States, even if the leather came from overseas.
Here’s what to check:
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Is the leather American-sourced?
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Is the stitching done in-house?
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Do they clearly explain how their products are made?
At Holtz, we don’t just assemble our goods here. We cut, stamp, sew, and finish each product by hand in our workshop in Alabama using leather sourced right here in the U.S. That’s what sets us apart.
2. Look at the Craftsmanship and the Materials
American-made leather goods stand out the moment you hold them. You can feel the quality and see the detail.
Here’s what makes a difference:
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Full-grain leather is the best there is. It shows real life. Tiny scars, texture changes, and natural marks prove that it’s honest and strong. These are not defects. They are the beauty of the hide.
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Hand-finished touches matter. We hand stitch our products with care, and you will see the marks of our hand tools. No two pieces should look exactly the same
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Custom options and small-batch runs are another sign of quality. When a shop lets you add initials or choose details, it usually means they’re making each product fresh.
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Real craftsmanship takes time. If a company says your personalized wallet will ship tomorrow, it probably wasn’t made by hand.
At Holtz, we take our time. We believe quality work should never feel rushed.
3. Know Who Made It
A company that can’t tell you where or how a product was made might have something to hide. Honest brands share their story. They talk about their people and their process.
At Holtz, we’re proud of both. We’re a family run business in Huntsville, AL. Each person on our team brings their own hands and skill to the work. That’s what makes every piece personal. It’s all part of the story of your unique product.
4. Look for More Than a U.S. Address
Some brands are based in the U.S. but make everything overseas. They may ship from here or run customer service here, but the product is built somewhere else.
Here’s how you can spot the difference:
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Check the About page for specific info about where they make things.
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Watch for vague phrases like “Designed in the USA.” That usually means it was made abroad.
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If they don’t say where it’s made, there’s a reason.
If a brand is proud of its craftsmanship, they won’t hide it.
5. Ask Questions and Expect Real Answers
You should never feel unsure about what you’re buying. Ask questions. Ask where the leather comes from. Ask who makes the product and how.
A company that values their craft will be happy to tell you.
At Holtz, we hear it all the time.
“I didn’t know people still made things like this.”
We do. And we’re proud of it.
Why It Matters
Next time you're looking for a wallet, a bag, or a gift, ask yourself this:
“Was this made with care, or is it just another mass produced object that will quickly deteriorate?”
Buying American-made is more than just the location and materials. It’s about the story. It’s about supporting real people, communities, and honest work.
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