First things first: it’s important to define what a glove maker is. A glove maker is an artisan who designs and sells gloves. This trade is very old — dating back to the Middle Ages — and requires excellent craftsmanship passed down from generation to generation. Traditionally, a glove maker worked and sold his gloves from a workshop known as a “ganterie.”
The History of Glove-Making and Glove Makers
The trade of glove making is steeped in history and has evolved over time with technological advances and changing fashion. Indeed, gloves are fashion accessories that — like any other garment — have gone through many changes, both aesthetic and functional.
In France, we have to go back to the Middle Ages, particularly the 14th century, to see the formation of cooperatives of glove makers. These groups established themselves in regions where river water was favorable for tanning, and especially where lambs, kids, and cattle were raised extensively. Thus the Massif Central, the region around Millau, Dauphiné, and Nouvelle-Aquitaine became the cradles of glove-making.
French Glove Makers and Glove-Making Recognized Worldwide
French glove-making and certain glove makers are known and respected around the world. This is reflected in production largely based in France. Indeed, gloves are produced worldwide today, but for luxury and quality pieces, most still come from France where the craftsmanship is best preserved.
As of 2020, French glove-making includes at least 15 different manufacturers of fashion gloves, mittens, sports, or work gloves. Even now, the main production areas remain the same as in the Middle Ages: Millau (Aveyron), Grenoble (Isère), and Saint‑Junien (Haute‑Vienne). The sector employs no fewer than 270 people in various trades, including glove makers.
Finally, French glove-making is a very small community of professionals, as illustrated by the number of artisans or companies recognized by the Fédération de la Ganterie française in 2020. That federation had only 7 members, and we are proud and honored to be among them.
Tradition, passion, and glove quality — these have been the pillars of our brand for 30 years. It’s also this commitment that earned us the EPV (Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant) label in 2016, recognizing our French and artisan craftsmanship. Discover all our quality commitments in our unique creations.