Different Types of Leather – The Complete Guide
The use of leather can be dated as far back as the Stone Age when humans began using the material for making clothing, shelter, and footwear. Techniques of preserving the material have developed greatly since then, and nowadays we use leather for a wide variety of applications.
In interior design specifically, leather is an extremely well known upholstery material because of its durability and deep tan coloring. Leather is extremely popular in interiors, and one we recommend to many of our clients when appropriate.
As technologies have advanced over the centuries, leather is now available in a wide variety of colors and textures! This can be difficult for anyone to navigate. From embossing to different hides, the possibilities are endless.
In this article we’re going to look into the different types of leather in more detail, with a specific focus on interior design applications. Are you ready to discover the different types of leather available?
What is Leather?
Firstly it’s important to understand what leather actually is.
Leather is obtained from the tanning or chemical treatment of animal skins and hides to prevent decay. The material is extremely strong and durable and has been used to make a variety of items for more than 7,000 years. Many of the world’s leading luxury brands across the fashion and automotive industries use leather in their products.
The most common leathers come from cattle. Sheep, goats, buffalo, pigs, and some aquatic animals too are all included here. During the preparatory stages of production, the hide is prepared which usually involves removing hair, although this is now becoming a popular choice to keep hair on the hide as it creates a completely different look.
Different Hides and Grades
As leather hides come from different animals, there are different grades of leather that refer to the different layers of the hide. It is worth noting that no two leathers are the same! The natural variation adds to the charm of the material.
Top-Grain Leather
This is the outer layer of the hide which features much finer, densely packed fibers that create the soft and smooth look and feel. Top-grain leather also includes full-grain, corrected grain, and nubuck leather. These are popular choices in the interior industry because they are typically the highest quality leather available.
Split Leather
This is created from the corium left once the top-grain has been removed. Bicast leather, patent and suede are all made from split leather. Patent leather has been given a high-gloss finish.
How is Leather Used in Interior Design?
Leather is used in a variety of ways in interior design. The most popular is in furniture upholstery as it’s such a strong and durable material. Leather is a great choice for busy families with kids and pets as it’s easy to clean.
There are many different bar and counter stools available that have leather seats, leather dining chairs, and more!
In addition to leather furniture, there are many different home accessories and decor pieces available in leather too. From decorative pillows to leather decorative trays to name a few. Some artists work exclusively with leather to create beautiful pieces of artwork from leather hides.
You may not know that even leather wall coverings are available that add a luxurious touch to a space.
You may like these Leather Furniture Pieces:
Note: Some links may be affiliate links.
Nubuck Leather Sofa
This stylish leather sofa has been upholstered in super-soft Nubuck leather!
Mid-Century Leather Chair
Choose a mid-century style accent chair, like this one, to be upholstered in a timeless leather.
Leather Bar & Counter Stools
Add some texture and natural color to your kitchen area with these leather bar and counter stools!
Channeled Leather Sofa
Inject some style and sophistication into your living room with this channeled style brown leather sofa!
Why Choose Leather?
Leather is an extremely durable and strong material that will last a lifetime. If you’re looking for a timeless piece of furniture that is durable, leather should be at the top of your list!
Leather does wear over time, but the only noticeable aspects of this is a natural aging process and softening of the material. Leather polish and buffers can be purchased to extend the life of leather pieces.
Different Finishes and Colors
While many associate leather as being a soft and smooth material, it’s actually available in a variety of different finishes. Similarly, what is called “natural leather coloring” actually varies depending on the animal hide and production process.
Natural or synthetic dyes are used to alter the color of leather. While the natural color is usually russet (the color the leather leaves the tannery), this is before dyes are applied and dried fully for at least 24 hours.
Leather finishing is the final step of the production process and this is where any embossing is done if required. Embossing adds an accentuated look to the natural grain of leather.
Vegan Options
Leather is a naturally occurring material from animals, so when the term “vegan leather” is used, it’s actually a marketing term for vinyl or PU.
Faux leather is made by applying a vinyl finish to a synthetic base, like polyester. A grainy texture is added to give the appearance of leather.
You may also enjoy:
Our Favorite Leather Home Accessories:
Woven Leather Throw Pillow
Inject leather into your home through decorative pillows! We love the woven style of these ones.
Leather Catchall
A catchall is great for using in entryways or on nightstands for storing small items.
Crocodile Placemat
We love the modern and fun touch of these crocodile placemats!
Woven Suede Throw Pillow
Use suede decorative pillows to add sophistication to your home! We love the chevron design of these ones!
