The Art of Improvisation – Bookbinding as an Art Form

12 September 2023

Bookbinding is a tradition that promotes the value of experimentation and reuse. Pineider is making this tradition accessible to everyone today. Workshops, pastimes, initiation rituals: a bookbinding course is much more than just a playful diversion. In the art of joining sheets of paper to create a book, there is a philosophy of life hidden within: “The goal is to transmit to people a DIY but experimental working method, even through the recovery of discarded materials and with everyday tools.” For Sebastiano, one of the instructors in the bookbinding courses organized by Pineider in its boutiques, bookbinding is the art of improvising with discipline. Sebastiano is one of the founders of Libri Finti Clandestini, a unique collective of enthusiasts: “We create experimental editorial products by exploring forgotten urban places. We search for materials in abandoned factories, archives, and printing workshops, and our goal is to create hand-bound books one by one, stamped and numbered, ready to be used and drawn upon: pop-up books in small print runs and collaborations with artists, where we delve into the fields of photography and letterpress printing.” The philosophy of the Libri Finti Clandestini project, Sebastiano continues, “is to bring something useful, well-crafted, and original to life by using ‘found’ paper that many consider trash: the materials used in the projects have the most diverse pedigree possible because they come from abandoned factories around Europe, libraries, warehouses, paper mills, and printing laboratories.” In Pineider’s Milan store, Sebastiano teaches Japanese bookbinding: “It’s an ancient technique that allows you to create an editorial artifact by working with single sheets of paper or sheets folded in half on themselves, using a needle and thread. Unlike other binding types where once the sewing is completed, you move on to trimming the book block, in the Japanese technique, trimming and arranging the pages in the correct format happen before sewing, which will be visible.” Discover our bookbinding courses HERE. Aggiungi ai preferiti

Working never tires (in the office of dreams)

6 September 2023

Attention to detail can transform the workplace into a “Realm of Ideas” where you can cultivate your creative potential. Just a few accessories, but the right ones, like those Pineider has created to make the office a unique place. In September, you won’t miss the beach umbrella: it may sound like one of those ironic challenges that trend on social networks, but it’s far from a Herculean task. It’s just enough to fuel the regained concentration after the summer break with your favorite nourishment for the mind and soul: ideas. “In the last three years,” explains Jonathan Paoli, Pineider’s retail manager, “with the rise of remote working, offices have become more of an ideal realm than a physical one, designed to give life and space to ideas. Now, more than ever, the workplace is where you must truly live your daily life, especially mentally. It’s a place you must truly feel as your own, a physical space where you can give birth to your best ideas because it speaks of you.” Pineider office products are designed for this very purpose because “while they are extremely functional, intended for professionals dealing with daily tasks, they also have an aesthetic element that sets them apart from typical accessories, the same hallmark of our more lifestyle-oriented collections. And, above all, they can be personalized.” Among the must-haves for the office envisioned by Pineider, the exquisite leather agenda is a must, allowing you to organize your days with style. There’s also the personalized document organizer, equipped with compartments for cards, notes, and pens, or the artistic notebook, inviting creativity by rediscovering the allure of a blank page, along with the indispensable desk pens. “We never forget,” adds Jonathan, “that work often begins on the journey from home. This is why our customers appreciate Pineider briefcases and backpacks, handmade using fine Tuscan leather. They are both functional and beautiful to showcase. It is in this combination that Pineider’s secret lies.” Aggiungi ai preferiti

A passion waiting to be ignited

5 September 2023

Creating this collection of cigar boxes, Pineider enlisted the assistance of an undisputed authority in the world of Italian tobacco, who shared the secrets of a rich and unique experience.   “Tobacco is not to be smoked, is to be savored,” says Terry Nesti, a prominent figure in the cigar industry for over twenty years and today the national coordinator of events for the Sigaro Toscano brand, introducing his greatest passion. For some years now, Terry has been collaborating with Pineider in crafting a collection of cigar boxes covered in exquisite leather, following the Florentine tradition. These products quickly became some of Pineider’s most sought-after home accessories. Terry reflects on the stages of this collaboration: “My dear friend Filippo Gosi, who was then the director of Pineider’s Florence boutique, involved me in the development of a set dedicated to the passion for cigars. There was a desire to create something different.” The immediate success of their initial collaborations has made the connection between Pineider and Sigaro Toscano a lasting and increasingly creative experience. Today, Pineider boasts a true family of cigar boxes in constant expansion, but the attention to detail remains the same. “The essential characteristic of a humidor,” explains Terry, “is, of course, maintaining internal humidity. A cigar is a living thing and, as such, it feeds on water. What distinguishes Pineider’s range is the quality of wood and leather, both of which are part of the Tuscan tradition that both Pineider and Sigaro Toscano embody.” With the same passion as always.   Aggiungi ai preferiti

The Allure of Tarot Cards: A Journey into the Ancient Art of Divination

10 August 2023

An intriguing ensemble of Arcana has been meticulously crafted by the master engravers at Pineider, breathing life into a set that captivates enthusiasts of the occult. In a preview event, the renowned tarologist Caterina Tritto showcased her skill, unveiling the hidden mysteries behind the most enigmatic cards of humanity. Enclosed within the elegant Pineider case, expertly tailored from embossed leather to perfectly fit the shape of the Tarot deck, lie the secrets of a millennia-old passion. We had the privilege of engaging with Caterina Tritto, the esteemed tarologist who graced the launch ceremony at the refined Florentine boutique on Lungarno Acciaiuoli, guiding us through the exploration of the Arcana and their profound meanings. “I believe in attraction,” shares Caterina with a reflective tone. “I believe in the vibrations emitted by our molecules and their interaction with the energy of the cards. I enjoy envisioning that your presence holds sway over the message you need to hear and consequently over the cards you will select. The cards, in essence, mirror what you feel and experience at this moment.” Her words dispel the aura of mysticism, replacing it with the clarity of determination: “No magic is present here, rather a strong will. Nothing holds a deeper significance than the message that, at this precise moment, holds the power and value to influence your thoughts or reinforce your awareness of your identity and the path you are treading. I am merely an interpreter: I decipher the message you have chosen for yourself in this instance.” But do some Arcana hold more relevance than others? To this question, Caterina responds thoughtfully: “If I were to choose one, I would say the Moon. This card carries significance for numerous reasons: it embodies the slow and steady personal growth, an inner process of evolution. Above it, an abyssal creature emerges, akin to a lobster ascending from the depths of water, from the recesses of the soul, to embrace the light. This imagery symbolizes poetry, writing, dreams, and the opportunities presented daily to cultivate a new world within ourselves.” However, it is the Fool (0) and the World (21) that most explicitly represent the various phases of the human experience within the Major Arcana. Caterina explains: “The Fool, the point of origin and destination, embodies constant flow and becoming. On the other hand, the World, the pinnacle we should aspire to reach, represents culmination, the supreme balance achieved through the integration of myriad elements. In life, nothing should dominate; instead, everything should converge in that ideal harmony—an equilibrium unattainable yet deserving of our perpetual pursuit.” The craftsmanship of the Tarot cards, a testament to both ancient and enduring wisdom, finds new life through the work of Pineider’s master engravers. The aura of mystery and allure surrounding these cards materializes in the embossed leather case, forming a precious casket for the concealed truths awaiting revelation. Guided by Caterina Tritto’s expertise, the practice of Tarot is not merely a form of divination, but a voyage into introspection, a bridge between the nuances of human energy and the language of the cards. Within each Arcanum resides a reflection of our emotional state, an opportunity for discovery and growth, and the renewed appreciation for the centuries-old art of Tarot captivates and enchants us like never before. Aggiungi ai preferiti

The best selection of personalized leather bags

26 June 2023

Personalized leather bags are the epitome of elegance and luxury. If you are looking for an extremely refined option to express your singular personality, Pineider bags are excellent for you. Pineider offers you a wide range of fine leather handbags, made with masterful craftsmanship and customizable to your most demanding desires. Whether you want to engrave your name or initials, Pineider has the ideal solution to meet your needs.  Jump to: Leather bags personalised with name or initials Personalised Shoppers Personalised work bags Personalised travel bags Conclusion     Leather bags personalised with name or initials Pineider bags represent authentic symbols of style and sophistication. Every tiny detail is carefully attended to, ensuring superior quality and unmatched durability over time. These bags embody Italian elegance in the most genuine and authentic way, attracting the admiration of those in search of excellence.   If you are fascinated by the idea of owning a Pineider customised leather bag, you can easily make your dream come true. Just get in touch with the Pineider team at eshop@pineider.com, and you will be paved the way to the creation of an exclusive bag that will embody your taste and personality. Every last detail will be shaped according to your needs and preferences, from the engraving details to the choice of initials or name you wish to engrave.   Personalised Shoppers Among Pineider’s wide range of bags, personalised shoppers stand out for their functionality and timeless style. Our unique personalised shoppers not only prove to be practical for your daily shopping, but also add an unparalleled touch of class to your look.   One of the available options is the Shopper Collection. Made from fine tumbled leather, this bag combines modern design with unparalleled functionality. Its generous capacity allows you to elegantly carry everything you need during busy days. Personalise it with your name or initials to give it an authentic uniqueness.   Another choice of undoubted excellence is the Metro Smooth Shopper Collection. This bag rises as an ode to classic elegance with its minimalist yet sophisticated design. The high-quality smooth leather and spacious interior make it the ideal accessory for your daily activities. Choose to personalise it to turn this shopper into an authentic icon of personalised style.   If, on the other hand, you want a more dynamic look, the Shopper Metro Nylon Collection  is the ideal choice. Made from a fine blend of smooth leather and the highest quality nylon, this bag is synonymous with strength and lightness. Its refined design and details make it a sophisticated option for the modern woman. Add a personal touch to your style by having it masterfully customized by the experts at Pineider.   Personalised work bags Choosing a Pineider custom bag for your work needs allows access to a world of unparalleled elegance and functionality. In addition, Pineider work bags can be uniquely customised, making them authentic works of art to carry with you.   Among the wide selection of models available, you will find the Embossed Empress Collection Slim Briefcase, the perfect companion for your days at the office. Made of fine Italian leather, this compact briefcase offers superior style and functionality. The design, crafted with close attention to detail, is embellished with a sleek handle and a prestige weave. The interior lining, made of microfiber, creates a refined contrast, while the zipper closure near the Pineider logo, giving it a touch of exclusivity. This product is entirely made in Italy, ensuring the highest quality craftsmanship, and features a practical and functional external pocket.   If you are looking for a versatile bag that can adapt to different situations, then the Convertible Bag Backpack Collection is the perfect choice for you. Inspired by an iconic Pineider computer case from the 1990s, this bag combines beauty and functionality in a timeless design. It can be used as a handbag, shoulder bag or backpack, allowing you to express your style on any occasion. Its bold Blue Lux hue adds an extra touch of class, making it a sophisticated and trendy choice.   If, on the other hand, you prefer a more classic style, the Doctor Briefcase Bag Collection is the ideal accessory for you. Made of high-quality tumbled calfskin, this flap briefcase offers a single compartment to keep your documents in perfect order. The removable and adjustable polyester shoulder strap provides comfort, while the personalised Pineider logo closure and satin-finished ruthenium metals add a touch of exclusive luxury. This bag is a classy option for sophisticated professionals.   Personalised travel bags Sporting a Pineider personalised travel bag is the secret for those who wish to stand out in style and sophistication. Imagine having in your hands a treasure trove of true Italian art, carefully packaged and embellished with unique details.    One of the gems that are part of this precious collection is the Duffle Travel Bag Collection. Made of the highest quality grained leather, this bag features a refined main compartment with a zippered opening, allowing you to better organise your personal belongings. In addition, the bag transforms into a sophisticated accessory to be carried by hand, shoulder or cross-body, giving you the ability to adapt with agility and practicality to any situation. The interior, impeccably lined in 100 percent cotton salt-and-pepper, houses a zippered pocket, a ticket pocket, and two flat pockets for valuables. The elegant Pineider logo, a symbol of excellence, embellishes this Made in Italy creation, a testament to unparalleled craftsmanship.   The Weekend Bag is another marvel that stands out for its trapezoidal design and irresistible allure. Made of Mini Franzi calfskin, it is a true object of desire. Featuring an adjustable polyester shoulder strap, this bag boasts a double zipper that flows fluidly. The front wall, evoking the beauty and elegance of a letter envelope, catches the eye with its distinctive pattern. The interior, lined with luxurious 100 percent cotton, provides a cosy and functional environment to better organise your belongings.   We cannot fail to mention the Trolley

The pleasure of traveling. Even while staying still

23 June 2023

Created to make a journey around the world unforgettable, the Pineider travel bags set is also perfect for enriching a domestic environment with valuable content. Pineider travel bags evoke intrinsic elegance, a sophisticated combination of style and functionality. Each bag carries the genetic heritage of sophisticated and courageous explorers, heroes of an era when travel was an art and adventure a way of life. Today, the value of time itself is at stake: “Just as the anticipation of pleasure is pleasure itself, during the journey, the transfer becomes the pinnacle of this pleasure,” explains Jonathan Paoli, Pineider’s retail manager. “And that’s why we wanted to rediscover the essence of handmade luggage, with a wooden soul and lining made with our leathers, from Bottalato to Mini Franzi. We thought of offering our clientele sets that truly provide priceless satisfaction in both travel and domestic use of this precious set.” Domestic use, as tradition dictates: “Pineider suitcases can become marvelous and incomparable decorative accessories when placed in the living room, bedroom, or even the office. The 3 trunks (large, medium, and small) and the beauty case blend perfectly with both neoclassical and minimalist modern environments, to be reinterpreted with the rediscovery of travel as a dimension of life. In fact, their design harkens back to that of common trunks from the past: they can become a dismantlable display furnishing. ” The technical characteristics of this set should not be overlooked: “For example, on the brushed brass closures, we wanted to maintain the highest quality and functional standard because comfort is now the primary requirement of luxury. Pineider is one of the pioneering brands of Florentine luxury luggage, and with this collection, we pay tribute to a centuries-old tradition that has brought us to 2023, quite literally… in the palm of our hand!” Aggiungi ai preferiti

How to clean your fountain pen: Pineider tips

15 May 2023

The fountain pen is a valuable and delicate writing instrument that requires special care to ensure maximum performance. Regular cleaning of your Pineider fountain pen helps to preserve its durability and maintain the quality of your writing. In this guide, we will show you how to clean your Pineider fountain pen with the utmost care.  Jump to: How to clean the nib How to clean the plunger How to clean a cartridge fountain pen How to clean the exterior Conclusion     How to clean the nib To clean your fountain pen nib, start by removing the cartridge or converter and disassembling the pen. Use a soft, clean cloth to gently blot the nib and remove any ink residue. You can also use a stick with a little warm water to clean the inside of the nib. Be careful not to clean it with too much force, as this may damage it.   In the case of encrusted ink deposits, we recommend soaking the nib in a mixture of water and vinegar, in the proportion of 250 ml to 5 ml, overnight. This procedure will allow the liquid to break down the ink agglomerates without doing any damage to the prized fountain pen. Afterwards, it is suggested that the nib be left to air dry overnight, placing it upright on a paper towel to absorb its moisture. How to clean the plunger For proper cleaning of a pen with a plunger filling system, only clean water should be used. To do this, you will need to remove the nib along with the cartridge or converter, and soak the tip of the nib in cold water. Next, you will need to gently press the plunger down and allow the water to flow through the pen, without the use of detergent. It is advisable to repeat this process until the water is clear. Finally, it is important to be sure to dry the pen thoroughly after cleaning it.   How to clean a cartridge fountain pen To clean a cartridge fountain pen, you will need to remove the empty cartridge and thoroughly rinse the inside of the pen with warm water to remove any ink residue. It is critical to allow the pen to dry completely before inserting a new cartridge.   In case you wish to use an ink of a different color, it is advisable to clean the pen with warm water after removing the previous cartridge. Alternatively, you can opt to use a converter, which will allow you to inject ink directly into the pen. In this case, you will need to clean the nib and plunger as previously described. How to clean the exterior To clean the exterior of the pen, it is important to note that the different types of materials used in the construction of a fountain pen require different cleaning techniques. For example, if your beautiful pen is made of silver, it will be necessary to use a specific polishing product, accompanied by a gentle cleaning cloth, in order to ensure maximum shine to this elegant metal. Should your pen be decorated with fine engravings, a silver brush should be used to clean every detail and groove.   As for hard metal finishes, such as platinum, gold or titanium, we recommend that you use a soft cleaning cloth in order to avoid any scratches or damage to the finishes of this valuable material. In any case, whether for celluloid, enamel or resin fountain pens, we recommend that you use a gentle cleaning cloth in order to keep their precious beauty intact over time. Be careful not to use alcohol or harsh chemicals that could damage the pen.  Conclusion By following our tips, you can clean your Pineider fountain pen safely and effectively, preserving its beauty and performance at the highest level. Always remember to treat your pen with care and store it in a safe place when not in use to preserve its beauty and elegance. With regular cleaning, your Pineider fountain pen will be with you in writing for years to come, offering smooth and accurate writing whenever you need it. Don’t forget that a well-maintained fountain pen can become a real treasure, passing from generation to generation. By following our cleaning and maintenance instructions, you can ensure that your Pineider pen will always remain a treasured object, both aesthetically and functionally. Aggiungi ai preferiti

penna pineider smontata

Taking Care of Creativity: Pineider X Poltrona Frau

10 May 2023

As Hungarian psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi wrote, creativity is like “a flow of consciousness, a state in which a person becomes completely absorbed in an activity for their own pleasure and delight, during which time flies and actions, thoughts, and movements follow one another incessantly.”   We all know how rewarding and fulfilling it is to engage in a creative activity that we are passionate about. Whether it’s writing a story, developing an idea, drawing, designing, or immersing ourselves in the study of a subject, the exercise of creativity is like navigating a constant current with dedication. It’s a moment when inspiration unfolds, embracing unpredictability and complexity. The importance of creativity extends beyond the individual. Its innovative power also influences society as a whole and contributes to cultural evolution. Every new idea, art form, or discovery carries the potential to transform the world we live in. When we cultivate our creativity, we invest in our personal development and simultaneously enrich the society we inhabit. That’s why when the iconic elegance of Poltrona Frau® meets the craftsmanship and sophistication of Pineider’s essential design, the result is an entire collection comprising different objects, all aimed at rediscovering the pleasure of writing. We encourage you to dedicate time to your creativity. Find a space in your day, perhaps before starting your daily activities or before going to bed, to explore what excites you. Write, draw, express yourself freely. Find your flow of consciousness and let your mind break free from constraints and rules. Creativity is an authentic and personal form of expression, and every voice matters. Remember, allowing time for creativity means embracing the unpredictable, nurturing curiosity, and nourishing your soul. Be bold, be open to novelty, and let your creativity manifest in its full magnitude. Writing becomes an act of defiance, a reclaiming of uniqueness. By gripping a pen, we expose ourselves to the risk of loss, dedicating ourselves to the certainty of never again. And this decision, rebelling against the mechanism of seriality, corresponds to authentic luxury. Discover the entire Pineider X Poltrona Frau collection and immerse yourself in the pleasure of writing. Aggiungi ai preferiti

BACKGAMMON, A MANUAL GAME

8 May 2023

TITLE: BACKGAMMON, A MANUAL GAME His tablet has attracted kings, heroes and emperors. But also the skilled hands of Pineider’s Florentine artisans, who paid homage to this game with a precious leather case and a very special instruction booklet. We opened it for you, discovering that… A BIT OF HISTORY Backgammon, in Italian Tavola Reale or Tric-Trac, is a board game for two players with a history that has spanned many centuries. Its origin is traced back to about 4500 years ago, or rather to the “Royal Game of Ur”, found in the tomb of a Sumerian king during excavations in the Mesopotamian city of the same name, in present-day Iraq. AND IT IS A DEBATE A subsequent discovery, however, seems to be able to anticipate the date of birth by about 100-200 years and transfer the birthplace to present-day Iran due to the discovery of a tablet during the archaeological excavations of the city of Shahr in the south-eastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan. The fact is that this game with very ancient roots has crossed many Eastern and Western cultures. To name a few: ancient Greece, India, ancient Egypt. Even China and Japan. Every culture has added or modified the rules of the game, changed the name or varied meanings, even giving an astral or symbolic vision of man’s destiny. HOW TO PLAY Backgammon is a strategy game where players sit facing each other, facing opposite sides of the board. On the board are drawn 24 narrow triangles called points. The colors of the triangles alternate, and are grouped into four quadrants of six. The four quadrants are the inside (home) board and both players’ outside board and are separated by a strip called the “bar”, which divides the board into two equal-width parts. Each player’s home is the right quadrant facing each other. The inner quadrants are opposite each other, as are the outer ones, which are located to the left of each player. The objective of each player is to move his checkers from the opponent’s home board to his own, following a horseshoe-shaped path, counterclockwise. The triangles are numbered from 1 to 24: number 24 is furthest from the player and number 1 is the rightmost one in the home board. Players have to make the checkers follow the reverse paths, therefore the first point of one player is the 24th of the other and vice versa. Each player must place their 15 checkers in order to start playing. Checkers come in two colors, usually white and red, or black and white. To place them on the board, each of the two players must place two checkers in point number 24, three in number 8, five in number 13, and the other five in number 6. The player with the highest number starts playing first. If both get the same result, the roll is re-rolled. In backgammon, the winner scores no points, but the opponent loses. So if you win, your opponent will lose the points marked on the doubling die, or even double or triple that value. The doubling die is not an ordinary die to roll, but rather a scorekeeper. It starts with the value 1, but you can increase it each turn, before rolling the dice. If you want to double the bet, and your opponent accepts, then the doubling die is rolled over to show the new value, and is placed in your opponent’s field. He becomes its owner and may offer another double during any of his future turns. If the opponent does not accept the double, he must concede the game and lose the original value of the bet. You can double down multiple times but, by custom, you don’t double more than three or four times in the course of a game. You can start with any checker you like, but it’s a good idea to remove checkers from your opponent’s home right away. You lose the turn if you can’t move any checkers and to win you must be the first player to take all checkers off the board. As? Rolling a roll that allows you to reach or go over the edge of the board. PINEIDER’S BACKGAMMON To pay homage to the most iconic of board games, the Florentine artisans of Pineider have created an elegant leather-covered box that also contains the Checkers game. The set, completely handmade, consists of two pairs of hand-decorated dice, an aluminum numerical dice, two leather-covered glasses, 30 resin checkers with the Pineider logo and two pairs of dice from 1 to 6 in aluminum (all contained in an elegant container of microfiber pieces and dice). Aggiungi ai preferiti