Woodhull 4702: The Backpack Pivot Flap
The Woodhull 4702 is one of the biggest leather briefcases I make: a 20 x 13 inch body with three compartments that span 7 inches, a red suede interior and two backpack straps.
Carried on the back
The 4702 wears like a backpack. It comes with a shoulder strap and two adjustable, suede-lined backpack straps. In the photos the straps are edged in red, matching the interior. The leather is traditional UK English bridle, thick and heavy, fully lined in Italian calf suede.
I estimated the earlier black version at 10 to 12 pounds. Plan on a heavy case, and on a trolley strap if you carry it far.
Three compartments, one wide flap
The compartments are 2.5, 2 and 2.5 inches deep, 7 inches in all, and the body is 20 x 13. The flap sits on an aluminum bar, so it opens wide, and it can be removed if needed. Open it and the three red-lined compartments stand side by side.
Hardware
The closure is an Italian handmade brass lock with my original Marcellino latch. In the photos that means double brass latches and a round combination clock lock on the front. The handle is my bottom cross stitch handle with a support bar.
The latches, the lock and the lining
The double brass latches are the Original Marcellino Latch, which I designed with attorney clients as a strong, quick alternative to buckles. The round lock between them is one of my high-end handmade locks, a combination that sets like a clock and is made by hand in Italy.
The red interior is Italian calf suede; the suede lining page explains why I use real suede and not microsuede. The black is UK bridle leather, described in What English Bridle Leather Actually Is, and Why Briefcases Are Cut From It. As of late 2026 I no longer build with the center brass lock or leather lining, so this describes an older build.
