CARRY SUSTAINABILITY CACTUS LEATHER BAGS

DESIGNED FOR THE WAY YOU LIVE~

MADE FOR THE WORLD YOU LOVE...

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Why plant based? "I design with the earth in mind and motion in my heart. Travel stirs something in me—the need to move, to seek, to carry stories.This collection is rooted in change. Becoming plant-based opened my eyes to what grows naturally around us—and how much we overlook. I found beauty in soil, in stone, in trails taken and places waiting. These bags are born from the ground and built for the journey."

American Designer, Artist, Female Founder, Creative entrepreneur/director-Andrea Valentini -since 2001
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AS SEEN IN

Meet The Maker

For over 20 years, I've been pushing the boundaries of sustainable design, experimenting with materials that minimize environmental impact. As the founder of AV Cactus Bio Leather, I create custom molded bags using a plant-based, vegan alternative free of solvents, petroleum, and rubber. My latest innovation is crafted from the resilient Nopal cactus of Mexico, a sustainable resource that allows me to produce unique, limited-edition pieces without compromising quality or aesthetics. Each design reflects a commitment to conscious craftsmanship-where sustainability meets artistry in a truly one -of-a-kind form.

GOOD TO KNOW ...

  • NO SOLVENTS- 90% Less GHG

    Vegan bags are often made with horrible toxic chemicals that never really leave the fabric. Our Cactus leather bags are 100% chemical free.
    Bioleather production emits fewer greenhouse gases, lowering its carbon footprint and supporting climate friendly practices. Traditional animal leather requires chemical toxins to tan the hides.

  • NO PETROLEUM- 98% Less WATER

    Our plant based cut water use, easing the burden on water resources and promoting sustainability.
    Bioleather uses less water then traditional animal leather which requires more water and land usage to maintain the animals.

  • NO RUBBER- 70% Less ENERGY

    Natural rubber is harmful to the environment because of deforestation for rubber plantations, releases harmful chemicals during manufacturing and relies heavily on fossil fuels.
    Bioleather requires less energy to produce, making ita more energy-efficient choice compared to traditional animal leather.
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"Travel stirs something in me—the need to move, to seek, to carry stories."

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FROM PLANT~ TO FABRIC~ TO BAG ~TO YOU!

  • STEP 1

    CUTTING THE SKINS FROM NOPAL CACTUS PADS

  • STEP 2

    CRUSHING THEM INTO A POWDERY MIXTURE FOR A DERIVED FORMULA

  • STEP 3

    FORMULA POURING AND LEVELING ONTO BACKING OF RECYCLED POLY/COTTON FABRIC

  • STEP 4

    FINISHED MATERIAL IS THEN GAUGED FOR CONSISTENCY AND PERFECTION

  • STEP 5

    BIO LEATHER IS THEN CUT INTO SHEETS AND PLACED IN AV DESIGNER MOLD FOR FINISHED MATERIAL.
    WATCH VIDEO 

  • STEP 6

    INTERIOR NYLON LINING AND HARDWARE IS CUSTOMIZED.

  • STEP 7

    CUTTING PROCESS, STITCHING AND ASSEMBLING.

  • STEP 8

    CUSTOM DRAWSTRING BAG WITH AV GIFT BOX INCLUDED WITH YOUR FINISHED BAG DELIVERED TO YOU.

FAQ

MATERIAL INFORMATION

What is Cactus Leather?

Cactus Leather is the latest innovation in sustainable fashion that comes from the leaves of Nopal Cactus Plants. Nopal Cactus grows abundantly in Mexico without needing any water. The properties of the nopal cactus plant are an organic and partially biodegradable solution to the plastic pollution crisis and is versatile enough to be used in fashion, automobile interiors and furniture.

How is Cactus Leather Made?

  1. Cactus pads are cut
  2. Washed and cleaned
  3. Mashed and dried
  4. Turned into Cactus Leather

The material is made from an organic cactus derived formula, with a backing made from recycled polyester and recycled cotton. It is made to last with a focus on durability. It is resistant to water, rubbing, and tearing. It also has a smooth, high quality finish.

Where does Cactus Leather Come From?

Opuntia Ficus-Indica Nopal which is a species of cactus that has long been a domesticated crop plant grown in agricultural economies throughout arid and semiarid parts of the world. Mexico has an abundant amount and is the prime source from where this material originated.

Why Is Cactus Leather More Sustainable then Animal Leather

Plant friendly Cactus Leather is a viable alternative to both animal-derived leather and traditional vegan leathers which can be made from highly toxic PVC or problematic polyurethane.

They are less harmful to the environment then animal leather, due to not only toxic chemicals used for tanning but also the devastating effects of raising animals on a large scale for human consumption.

  • Fact:Animal agriculture is the leading cause of climate change, among 1/3 of the water on the planet and 45% of land usage not to mention that the tanning process uses chemical compounds.

What Makes These Bags Special

The process for molding this material begins with an exclusive design by Andrea Valentini that is then made into a mold for each sheet of cut material to be molded into. The panel is then cut into the shapes for the bags to be stitched and assembled. There are only limited quantities of each style being produced to keep the integrity of the design as a sculptural work of art.

How Do I Clean Cactus Leather?

Easy to Clean using a soft cloth and spray or detergent for removing stains.

What is the Shipping & Return Policy?

  • PRODUCT & SERVICE INFORMATION
  • We are a sustainable brand and only use the most innovative materials.
  • Bio leathers are very durable and lightweight as they are made from the plant base by products of natural skins and may be cleaned with light natural detergent.
  • SHIPPING POLICY Orders placed after 12PM EST will be processed and shipped the following business day if the item is in stock. If the item is out of stock, customers will be notified within one business day. All orders are shipped via UPS or USPS. UPS cannot ship to a PO Box. Delivery time does not include Sundays, or any postal holidays. Andrea Valentini offers Ground Shipping, 3 Day, 2 Day and Next Day shipping options. Once the item is shipped, AV is not responsible for the time of delivery. If the item is not delivered within the appropriate time frame provided by the shipping carrier standards (refer to UPS or USPS zone charts), please contact the shipping carrier regarding your shipment.  If assistance is needed regarding a lost package, please contact AV for assistance. Customers are responsible for any cost related to exceptions made by UPS for incorrect or unavailable shipping addresses. 
  • INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING For international inquiries, please contact info@andreavalentini.com
  • ORDER PROCESSING STANDARDS We accept all major credit cards, paypal or personal checks by mail. Credit cards will be charged upon shipment of purchased items. Orders placed after 12PM will be processed and shipped the following business day if the item is in stock. If the item is out of stock, customers will be notified within 3 business days.
  • SECURE PAYMENT The Andrea Valentini website is provided with an SSL encryption system to protect personal and payment data. All payments are processed through our verified merchant, Authorized.Net for secure shopping. AV Production Studio does not keep any credit card information on file for future purchases.
  • ORDER STATUS To check your order status please log in to your account at andreavalentini.com and under order history select pending orders.In addition, we provide all shipping carrier tracking information via email. If you do not receive tracking information within the first two (2) business days, please check your spam folder or contact AV Production Studio.
  • CANCELLATIONS At this time, AV doesn’t allow for order cancellations during the order-processing phase. Any unwanted items must be returned after being received.
  • RETURN AND EXCHANGE POLICY If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, you may return the item within 30 days upon receipt. The item must not be worn or altered. Please allow credit within 5 business days from the time we receive your return. Please allow your financial institution and additional 7-10 business days to post to your account. AFTER 30 DAYS, We offer store credit. AV Production Studio offers store credit for all products within the first year of purchase. Credit will be applied internally with your next purchase. Defective items upon delivery or any time within the first year of purchase may be returned in exchange for the same item or an item of equal or lesser value. At this time, the customer is responsible for all shipping and handling costs for the return good(s). Please provide your contact information, reason for return, and original merchandise to:
  • AV Production Studio: C/O Andrea Valentini 573 37th Ave. San Francisco, CA 94121 Packages that arrive COD will not be accepted. 
  • PRODUCT REPAIR: We stand behind the integrity and quality of our products. If repair is necessary, please contact AV Production Studio for assessment of restoration or further advice.
  • GIFT CARDS Andrea Valentini offers gift certificates upon request.
  • We recommend emailing: info@andreavalentini.com to ensure personalization if desired.

 

  • PLEASE NOTE ON WEARABILITY: Please be aware that areas on the bag where most wear happens, it is normal as is with any natural material including animal leather. We will take in exchange for a new bag within the first 3 months of Purchase. 
  • If there are any issues with Zipper breakage or any other defect, we will exchange for a new bag within the first 3 months.

Contact us for custom fabrics or product collaborations

Customer Reviews

Based on 5 reviews
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C
Chris Johnson

Great

M
Michael D
Every trip I take

I’ve had my original AV duffel for over 15 years - I gasped when I saw it on display and had to have it. It’s rugged, easy to keep looking great. Not to mention all of the attention I get - people ask to feel it or burst out “what is that”?
I carry all of my weekend explorer essentials inside. It fits under the seat in the airplane or train - no fighting for overhead space. Get one.

R
R.V.
Designer Craft & Sustainability

Andrea Valentini has created a product that is designer quality with durability. I seek unique brands that are focused on craftsmanship and sustainability and the Ro fits the bill. Unlike other designer items, I’m not afraid to use this duffel consistently without worrying because of its obvious functionality. Attention to detail and innovative design enable its quality to enhance performance. The compliments I’ve received on it don’t hurt either.

A
Anonymous
Perfect Duffel for work and travel

I used this bag constantly for work and travel. It’s the perfect size to fit everything you need and is lightweight and easy to travel with. The pockets inside make it easy to store smaller items and the duffel itself is large enough to bring clothes, laptops, work materials, food, etc. not to mention the sleek and stylish design that I get compliments on all the time. Definitely would highly recommend this duffel!

A
Anonymous
Love this bag for overnight or weekend trip!

I have this bag in shroom color which I love! It is such a unique and beautiful color. It is a great fall color too that could match with anything. This duffle is great for a short weekend trip when you don’t want to bring a bulky carry on. It is surprisingly large and can fit a lot! The shoulder strap and lock are great additions. I love that I have the option to lock the back if I never needed to check it on the plane!