On October 10, 2025, we released our collaboration series with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing.
TOYOTA GAZOO Racing × master-piece
At master-piece, we translate the quality proven in the extremes of motorsport into bags suitable for everyday life.
This time, we take a closer look from a craftsmanship perspective at the background and appeal of the series’ core material — the suede-like fabric used for automobile seats.
It all started with car seats
The main fabric is upcycled from the suede-like fabric used for the seats of GR YARIS and GR COROLLA, produced by Aunde Japan.
Originally developed for automotive interiors, this surface material meets strict standards for flame resistance, lightfastness, weather resistance, and abrasion resistance—a true professional-grade material.
By repurposing it for our bags, we achieved a refined touch and exceptional durability at the same time.
This fabric is supplied through RE:TERRACE, the upcycling brand by Toyota Boshoku. During seat production, stock rolls and offcuts preserved for repairs are generated.
RE:TERRACE gives new value to these “retired” rolls and offcuts, transforming them into everyday products.
The surface materials used in this collaboration helped reduce CO₂ emissions and disposal costs by approximately 2.9 times the amount RE:TERRACE achieved in FY2024.
From racing material to everyday bags
Simply put, this suede-like fabric is extraordinary.
Its appeal lies in the smooth texture created by its fine fibers—and the more you use it, the more you’ll appreciate its durability.
Originally developed for GR vehicle seats, this fabric is designed to withstand intense friction, perspiration, high summer heat, and freezing winter cold. That toughness provides a sense of security for daily use.
And the fact that it meets Toyota’s rigorous quality standards makes it truly special.
The philosophy of GR and the craftsmanship of master-piece take upcycling to a new stage—that is where this project begins.
Craftsmanship that unlocks material potential
Although supple, the suede-like material has substantial thickness, making it difficult to handle with standard sewing techniques.
At BASE, master-piece’s in-house factory, we reconfigured everything from sewing machine settings to stitch design to suit the material.
Through countless millimeter-level adjustments, we discovered the optimal way to bring out the material’s full character.
To express the GR spirit of customization in the design, we incorporated an original color-changeable hook buckle as a shared feature across all items.
Initially, the prototype buckle was vermilion red, but after numerous design trials, we finalized a mass-production version in a diagonal black-and-red color scheme inspired by the GR logo.
This buckle symbolizes not just functionality, but also the distinctive GR identity.
To fully harness the material’s potential, most of the models in this series are based on master-piece’s popular standard items, updated with GR specifications.
RE:TERRACE and the future of craftsmanship
RE:TERRACE is a project that sheds light on materials such as surplus rolls and offcuts from seat-cover production—resources that would otherwise go unused.
By applying the upcycling philosophy—“transforming what already exists into something new with added value”—to everyday products, the initiative bridges automotive craftsmanship with daily living.
RE:TERRACE continues to expand its scope by developing new upcycling materials and components.
In addition to collaborating with local companies, it also works with corporate and organizational partners who share its values—engaging in joint product development and providing upcycled surface materials.
Through workshops and hands-on events, the brand also offers opportunities to experience the joy of craftsmanship while promoting education and regional collaboration.
Care Tips｜For long-lasting beauty
・Brushing: Use a soft horsehair brush to remove dust and restore the nap and color.
・Water exposure: Gently blot with a dry cloth and air-dry in the shade. Avoid direct sunlight.
・Storage: Keep in a well-ventilated place. Avoid long-term contact with dark-colored items to prevent color transfer.
In conclusion
This series is available at our flagship stores,
master-piece retailers nationwide, and our
online store.
From materials born of GR’s passion for performance to bags crafted for everyday life—upcycling is not merely about “not discarding,” but about redefining value.
Experience the authentic texture born from the same passion that drives every car forward.
Brand Profiles
TOYOTA GAZOO Racing
TOYOTA’s motorsport brand that embodies the philosophy of “making ever-better cars.”
Through continuous participation in races worldwide, it hones driving pleasure and durability, feeding that knowledge back into production vehicles and everyday mobility.
TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Official Website › https://toyotagazooracing.com/jp/
RE:TERRACE
An upcycling brand by Toyota Boshoku Corporation.
It gives new value to surplus rolls and offcuts generated in automotive seat production, rebirthing them as products that enrich daily life.
Guided by the belief that “extending the life of materials can redefine the future of craftsmanship,” RE:TERRACE promotes a sustainable manufacturing approach.
Toyota Boshoku RE:TERRACE Official Website › https://www.toyota-boshoku.com/jp/upcycle/
