Leather Buying Tips

A surge in supply and new, more efficient manufacturing processes have brought down the cost of leather. This surprisingly practical material now adorns sofas at price points once reserved for vinyl look-alikes.

Leathers are graded by the size, location, and severity of the natural blemishes that are a part of all hides. Nearly perfect, mark-free hides are rare and prized. Most aniline leathers (see below) will have visible markings, such as wrinkles and scars. These leathers will develop a beautiful lustrous patina with age and use.

When shopping, look for top grain leather, which comes from the desirable outer surface of the hide. Leather taken from the inner surfaces is split grain, which is much weaker.

Aniline (or "pure" or "full" aniline) leather is soaked in aniline dye, but does not have other finishes or pigments applied. Only the best hides are used for this superbly soft leather.

Semi-aniline (or "protected" aniline) leathers have a small amount of pigment, giving them slightly better protection against stains and fading.

Pigmented leathers are the least expensive. Although the leather used for this process are somewhat stiffer than the others, pigmented leathers are also more stain- and scuff-resistant.

Keep in mind that added finishes and surface pigments aren't necessarily bad. In addition to lowering the cost, they also increase the uniformity of the color and provide superior resistance to fading, scratches, and stains. In other words, perfect for rough-and-tumble family use.