What does it really mean to change the leather industry?
For Mike, founder of HAB-TO Leather House In Amsterdam, this means: back to the roots – and simultaneously forward. Its history is shaped by craftsmanship, family history, and an uncompromising commitment to pollutant-free tanned leather. Now, together with a certified tannery in Italian A new article has been created: “Jesse” - on Olivenleder®, which can be seen, felt and understood.
From Argentina to Amsterdam – a journey to better leather
Mike's journey began in Argentina. There he worked with local leather workshops, supporting them in returning to vegetable tanning – and spoke out clearly against opaque supply chains and solvent-based processes.
Back in the Netherlands, he observed that much in Europe remained the same. But instead of resigning himself to this, he decided to build bridges – between craftsmanship and innovation, between origin and future.
Leather, the material and the statement
With his label HAB-TO Today, Mike brings clean, chrome-free leather to brands, designers and manufacturers throughout Europe.
The latest result: a new article called “Jesse”, tanned with Olivenleder® – developed in close collaboration with an Italian partner tannery.
"We have Olivenleder® They compared it to classic vegetable-tanned quebracho leather – and were thrilled. It's wonderfully easy to work with, feels as soft as butter, and carries a strong history within it.”
Jesse This is a certified natural leather with a soft feel, distinctive surface, and high malleability. Ideal for accessories, crafting, design – and for anyone who values quality materials and craftsmanship.
Why Olivenleder®?
The basis of Olivenleder® is a plant-based tannin, obtained from Olive tree leaves – a by-product of Mediterranean agriculture.
Instead of being burned, the leaves are upcycled – into a biodegradable, TÜV-certified tanning agent without chromium, without aluminum, without synthetic aldehydes.
Mike sums it up perfectly:
"The olive tree is pruned back so that it grows stronger. And instead of burning the leaves, they are used for leather tanning – for a leather that can ultimately even be returned to the ground."
This is more than sustainability. This is circular thinking – consistently implemented.
Crafters are changing the industry
For Mike it is clear: Real change begins with craftsmanship.
Because those who work with leather – who cut it, shape it, test it – ask the right questions. They can feel the difference.
“Crafters are interested in the material. They want to know what’s in it. They are critical – and at the same time open. That’s exactly where change begins.”
HAB-TO Therefore, it's not just a supplier. It's a movement. For everyone who wants good leather – and knows how it should be made.
Discover “Jesse” – and the idea behind it
With partners like HAB-TO and committed tanneries in Italy, it shows Olivenleder®That responsible leather doesn't have to be a compromise.
And that innovation doesn't originate in laboratories – but in exchange, in craftsmanship, in genuine collaboration.
Whether brand, manufacturer or design studio:
Whoever holds "Jesse" in their hands is not just holding a material. But a promise.
👉 Learn more about our certified processes
👉 Learn about the plant-based tannin from olive tree pruning
👉 Get in touch or request a "Jesse" sample