Sunglasses, once a purely functional tool, have transcended into the realm of fashion. But what if your shades told a story, not just of your personal style, but of the journey they took from humble beginnings to your face? That’s the magic of wooden sunglasses.
Nature’s Canvas: A World of Wood
Wooden sunglasses are crafted from a variety of woods, each with its own unique personality and story. Let’s meet some of the most popular:
- Walnut: Rich, warm brown with a beautiful grain, walnut offers a classic and sophisticated look. Its natural oils make it resistant to moisture and scratches. The Alpine Aspects combine timeless walnut wood frames with modern polarized lenses for unmatched clarity and comfort.
- Black Walnut: A deeper, richer cousin of walnut, black walnut boasts a stunning dark chocolate hue with lighter streaks. It’s slightly denser than walnut, making it even more durable. The Timberlines are crafted from sleek black walnut, adding a touch of sophistication to any adventure.
- Bamboo: Sustainable and fast-growing, bamboo brings a touch of the exotic to your eyewear. Its light weight and flexibility make it surprisingly comfortable to wear. If Bamboo is your style, check out the Grizzlies – Crafted from sustainable bamboo, these polarized wayfarers are light on the planet and big on style.
- Ebony: The king of luxury woods, ebony is prized for its deep black color, density, and strength. It’s a truly timeless choice for those who appreciate understated elegance. The Pilots Club aviators seamlessly blend classic pilot style with the rich elegance of genuine ebony wood
Strength in Layers: A Symphony of Wood
Wooden sunglasses aren’t just carved from a single piece of wood. They’re meticulously crafted by layering thin sheets of wood together, often with a core of a different material like bamboo or maple. This creates a strong, flexible frame that can withstand daily wear and tear.
The Art of the Craft:
The creation of wooden sunglasses is a testament to human skill and artistry. Each pair is carefully handcrafted, often by small, independent workshops. The process typically involves:
- Selecting the wood: Each piece of wood is hand-picked for its grain, color, and strength.
- Thinning and shaping: The wood is sliced into thin sheets and then shaped into the desired frame form.
- Layering and pressing: The wood sheets are layered together with a core material and then pressed under high pressure and heat to form a solid frame.
- Cutting and sanding: The frame is then cut to its final shape and sanded smooth.
- Finishing: The frame is coated with a protective layer of oil or varnish to enhance its beauty and durability.
- Adding the finishing touches: Hinges, lenses, and other hardware are added to complete the sunglasses.
More Than Just Shades: A Statement of Style and Sustainability
Wooden sunglasses are more than just a fashion statement; they’re a conversation starter. They tell the story of nature’s beauty, human craftsmanship, and a commitment to sustainability. By choosing wooden sunglasses, you’re not just protecting your eyes from the sun, you’re also making a conscious choice to support eco-friendly practices.
So, the next time you slip on your wooden sunglasses, take a moment to appreciate the journey they took. From the lush forests to the skilled hands of the craftspeople, each pair is a unique work of art that tells a story of nature, sustainability, and human ingenuity.
Ready to embark on your own wooden sunglasses adventure? Here are a few tips:
- Do your research: Choose a brand that uses sustainably sourced wood and ethical manufacturing practices.
- Consider your style: Wooden sunglasses come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and wood types to suit every taste.
- Take care of your shades: Store them in a cool, dry place and wipe them clean with a soft cloth.
With a little love and care, your wooden sunglasses will become a cherished companion, reminding you of the beauty of nature and the artistry of human hands.
I hope you enjoyed this journey from forest to face! Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or experiences with wooden sunglasses.
Check out our curated selection of sustainable sourced Wooden Sunglasses!
