1st tooling pattern is traced onto transparent paper and then traced directly onto dampened leather. Then multiple tools are used to stamp each image and their details into the leather. Once this has been done the background is hand painted to highlight the details in the decor. Once this is finished an antique finish is applied polished and sealed. This coloring process is more time consuming and labor intensive, adding to its cost and value. A lighter background with darker edges is the result of only applying dye to the surface rather than hand painting the background. This also has a very beautiful effect, but doesn't distinguish the art and details as perfectly. Although this process still produces great results and cuts cost on labor making the wallet more affordable.