From the bench, and from the years after it leaves.
The first mark always feels like a mistake. Give it a month. Vegetable-tanned leather takes in oil from your hands and light from the day. What starts as a pale, firm piece becomes softer, darker, and yours.
One strip from the hide. A solid brass buckle. The simplest things need the fewest excuses.
A plain kraft box, a tissue wrap, and initials if you like. Add a gift note when you get in touch.
Blot with a soft cloth. Let it dry at room temperature, away from heat. Never put it on a radiator.
Use a very small amount of neutral leather balm. Try an unseen corner first; conditioner usually darkens natural leather.
Wipe with a barely damp cloth. Skip soap, solvents and polish. Most marks will soften into the patina.
Let it dry fully and keep it somewhere cool and airy. A cloth bag is better than sealed plastic.