Ask TGS: Are Leather or Fabric Pen Cases "Better" for your Pens?

Four cases I’m currently using, in a mix of leather and fabric, clockwise from top left: Craft Design Technology Pen Pouch, Soolla Studio Pouch, Nagasawa Kip Leather 10-Pen Folio, and a Rickshaw Fillmore. Though it initially struck me as a somewhat odd question, I get asked from time to time what pen case material is “safer” for your pens. There are two main options in today’s market - leather and cloth - and each has its own set of considerations. I’ll talk a bit about the advantages and disadvantages of each material, though I don’t believe that either one presents any serious risk of actually causing damage to a pen. I’ll also talk a bit about the difference between “damage” and the normal inevitable wear and tear resulting from using a pen as intended. If I had to choose a favorite leather color, it would be cognac or saddle. Leather Cases and CoversMost leather pen cases, and other stationery items such as notebook covers and pouches, are made from cow or goat hide. Leather is…