Cork is a truly remarkable natural, sustainable, vegan and eco-friendly product. 
It has its own anti-mildew and anti-bacterial qualities and is fully water-resistant.  As a highly durable material, that is also lightweight, it makes an excellent choice for bags and other accessories.  Over time it will develop its own patina and, like animal leather, some wear at the corners of certain products is to be expected.  

All cork used in Bee by Design products originates from Portugal, where the cork is grown. Cork bark is harvested every 8-9 years from the Cork Oak (Quercus Suber) tree.  These trees live for over 300 years and harvesting can start once they are approximately 25 years old. The process of extracting the cork is referred to as ‘descortiçamento’ and is a highly skilled, traditional craft that has been passed down from generation to generation.

© Robert Paul Van Beets

After the cork is harvested, it is boiled to remove any impurities and to soften it, making it more pliable.  It is then flattened and dried.  Once dry, it is cut into very thin sheets in preparation for making it into cork fabric. 

The thin sheets of cork are then laminated onto a backing material, which is commonly 65% cotton and 35% polyester.  The goal of the cork manufacturers is to continue to reduce the use of polyester fibers in cork fabric.  Further processing is then done to ensure a strong bond between the cork and the backing fabric, before the fabric is sent off to be coloured or to have a design printed on it.  

As cork is water-resistant, traditional textile dyes do not work on cork.  Cork fabric is printed with eco-friendly, vegetable dyes and is now available in a wide range of designs.  

We are always excited to bring you new colours and designs in our bags.  To ensure your cork bag or pouch continues to look its best, please follow our care instructions carefully.