Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? I’ve got answers!
What about warranty?
WARRANTY
My limited warranty covers defects in material or workmanship for up to one year from date of purchase. See here https://lolaspatch.com.au/returns-exchange returns
for details.
Do you offer AfterPay or PayPal pay in 4?
No sorry. The fees for me are too high as a solo female owned business.
How long is turnaround time for in-stock and custom items?
For bags here in the studio, I aim to ship within 3 business days of your order—because waiting is the worst, right? But since it’s just me running the show, things can take a little longer during busy times. I am also a teacher and a mum and wife. :0
For CUSTOM or BESPOKE orders, your bag will be handcrafted with care and ready to ship 8-12 weeks after the 50% payment is made. International orders may take a few extra weeks because, well… distance. But trust me, it’ll be worth the wait!
#HandmadeTakesTime #OneWomanShow #LolasPatch #SlowFashion #MadeWithCare
How do I get a refund on a defective item?
I want you to love your Lola’s Patch bag, so if there’s a quality issue, I’ll make it right! If you receive a defective item, please send me clear photos and details within 14 days of receiving it via the Contact tab.
Since every bag is handmade by me, I stand by my craftsmanship—but if something’s not up to standard, I’ll sort it out. For all the nitty-gritty details, check out Returns
What kind of leather do you use?
I use the best quality Australian leather, including cow, hair on hide cowhide, bovine, kangaroo, sheep (nappa) and goat leather. Some bags may also feature faux leather or other natural materials like canvas. Every material is selected for both durability and unique style.
What is the difference between Full grain, Top- grain and Genuine Leather?
Sadly, many consumers aren’t familiar with the terms “full grain” "top-grain" and instead they look for the words “genuine leather.” But, if a leather bag or jacket is listed as genuine leather, it’s not actually a good sign. At least, not where the leather’s quality is concerned. “Genuine leather” has essentially become a catch-all phrase for anything that is technically leather. However, if you’re looking for true leather quality, you’ll want to look in the direction of full-grain or top grain leather products.
Here is some more information on picking the best quality leather:
1. Origin
Full grain leather comes from the top layer of the hide and includes all of the natural grain, while top grain leather has the outermost layer of the hide removed.
2. Quality & Cost
Full grain leather is the highest quality grade of leather that money can buy. It comes from the top layer of the hide and includes all of the natural grain. It is more expensive for manufacturers to buy and more difficult for them to work with. This is reflected in the cost to the consumer. Hence why you can get cheaper genuine leather purses and bags in retail stores. Top grain leather bags are still very durable and reliable.
3. Appearance
The natural surface of full grain leather is incredibly unique—it tells a story through natural imperfections, marks, and even light brands in the surface, evident in the markings on some of my cowhide clutches, keyrings and bags. The natural grain from the top surface of top grain leather is sanded away, which removes imperfections and blemishes. After sanding away the natural grain, top grain leather is imprinted with an imitation grain to give it more a uniform look, but the hide loses some of its strongest fibers as a result. However, if uniform is what you’re looking for, then you’re in luck with top grain leather. I use both leathers at Lola's Patch depending what my leather shops have to offer!
4. Aging
As full grain leather ages, rather than wearing out, it burnishes and beautifies, developing a much sought-after patina and unique character that cannot be easily duplicated. Truly, the more you use it, the better it looks and feels. And the more expensive they are.
Top grain leather is applied with a finishing coat that provides protection against stains that would otherwise stick right into full grain leather. However, the refinishing process of top grain leather greatly reduces the leather’s breathability, and also prevents the leather from developing a natural patina over time. Like most chrome tanned leathers- kangaroo coloured leathers are an example of this.
5. Durability
Full grain leather is incredibly strong and durable, as the natural grain contains the strongest fibers in the hide. It’s also extremely breathable, resulting in less moisture from prolonged contact. Full grain leather can be more susceptible to staining, so ensure to protect your bag with leather conditioner and clean it right away if it develops an unsightly stain. The downside of top grain leather is the loss of sanding off the strongest fibres in the natural grain hide. Because of this, it’s incredibly important to properly care for delicate top grain leather, as it can be more prone to noticeable scratching than full grain leather.
6. Care
Both full grain and top grain leather require ongoing maintenance and upkeep with leather cleaner and conditioner as detailed in my Leather Care section. Bottom line: don’t fall into the trap of buying “genuine leather” products that are anything but. If you’re looking for real leather products, I recommend finding a reliable source for full grain and top grain leather goods. Both are great options when it comes to quality and durability, but choosing between the two depends on what’s important to you.
Here at Lola's Patch there are NO "genuine leather" items. All of my bags are made with both FULL GRAIN AND TOP GRAIN leathers.
Can I shop in person?
Yes, I regularly attend markets in the South West of WA. Bridgetown, Manjimup, Donnybrook and Bunbury are my local hangout spots for markets. Keep your eye on emails and I will notify you of my upcoming markets. Currently my next market is in Donnybrook Apple Festival 2025. 
Still unsure? Please send a message here.