Any collection of records built up over years — whether it’s a paper logbook, a spreadsheet, or an app’s database — is only as safe as its most recent copy. A common rule of thumb for data redundancy is the “3-2-1” principle: keep three copies of your records, on two different types of media, with at least one copy stored somewhere other than where the originals live. A logbook kept only in the workshop can be lost to a spill, a fire, or simply misplacing it; a phone with years of project photos and material logs is no different if nothing exists outside that one device.
A leathercraft record built up over years—comprising material inventories, project histories, tool maintenance logs, and pattern files—represents a significant investment of time and data. HideLog operates as a local-database application, meaning your records are stored directly on your device rather than a central cloud server. While this ensures privacy and offline accessibility, it also means that a lost, damaged, or replaced phone can erase your entire workshop history if a backup has not been performed.
What this article covers
This article outlines what a complete backup should capture regardless of format, then explains the specific export formats HideLog provides, the logic of its restoration process, and how plan limits apply when importing historical records.
Backup Checklist: What to Include
A comprehensive backup should encompass all data clusters required to reconstruct your workshop’s digital “memory.” A complete archive includes:
- Projects: Names, item types, status, and labor hours.
- Materials: Full inventory details, including leather specifications (tannery, thickness, finish) and current stock levels.
- Tools: Maintenance history and condition notes.
- Wishlist: Items, categories, and purchase links.
- Step Photos: Visual documentation from your step-by-step logs.
- Pattern Files: Attached PDF or image templates linked to your projects.
Export Formats: CSV vs. Full Backup (ZIP)
To accommodate different management needs, data can be exported in two distinct formats:
- CSV Export: This format is primarily used for data analysis and external viewing. It exports projects and material lists into a format compatible with spreadsheet software like Excel or Google Sheets, making it ideal for end-of-month audits or cost reviews.
- Full Backup (ZIP): This is a comprehensive archive designed for disaster recovery or device migration. It bundles all database records—including projects, materials, tools, and wishlists—alongside all associated media, such as step photos and pattern files.
How Restoring and Plan Limits Work
The restoration process in HideLog uses an “append” logic. When you import a previous CSV or ZIP file, the system adds the records to your current database as new entries; it does not merge with or overwrite existing data.
It is important to note that the standard 5-project limit for the free plan applies to the restoration process. While you can backup and restore material inventory, tool records, and wishlists without restriction, a free-plan account is capped at 5 projects total. If a backup file contains more than five projects, the system will require an upgrade to the Pro version to restore or manage records beyond that limit.
Secure Your Data with HideLog
We have integrated CSV Export, Full Backup (ZIP), and Data Import features directly into the app to ensure your records remain under your control. All three features are available to all users on the Settings screen. While the 5-project cap remains for the free plan, there is no separate charge for the backup and recovery tools themselves, as they are essential for long-term workshop management.
To begin building a secure history of your leathercraft journey, you can download the app here: HideLog on the App Store
Summary
Because HideLog prioritizes local storage, maintaining a regular backup is the only way to protect years of workshop data from device failure or loss. By utilizing CSV exports for viewing and ZIP backups for total recovery, makers can ensure their project history, material specs, and patterns remain safe. Understanding that the import process appends data and respects plan limits allows for a predictable and reliable way to manage workshop records over the long term. For a broader look at why keeping this data in one place beats juggling spreadsheets, see One App or a Spreadsheet? Why Leathercrafters Need a Single System.
This article organizes information from a recording and organizing perspective. If you notice an error or outdated information, please contact us. Last verified: July 2026
