How is Leather Split?

One of the critical factors that determine the quality of leather is the split or the layers included or excluded from the hide. In this blog post, we will explore the different splits of leather, their differences, and the pros and cons of each.

Full-Grain Leather

Full-grain leather is the highest quality leather available. It is made from the top layer of the hide, which is the strongest and most durable part of the animal. Full-grain leather is not sanded or buffed, so it retains the natural grain and markings of the hide. This gives it a unique texture and appearance that becomes more beautiful with age. Full-grain leather is also the most expensive cut of leather.

Pros:

• The highest quality and most durable leather available.
• Retains the natural grain and markings of the hide.
• Ages beautifully and develops a unique patina over time.

Cons:

• Expensive due to the high quality of the material.
• May have natural blemishes or imperfections on the surface.

Top-Grain Leather

Top-grain leather is the second-highest quality leather available. It is made from the top layer of the hide, but it is sanded and buffed to remove any imperfections, resulting in a smoother surface. Top-grain leather is also more flexible and easier to work with than full-grain leather, making it a popular choice for furniture and upholstery.

Pros:

• A high-quality leather that is more affordable than full-grain leather.
• A smoother surface that is more uniform in appearance.
• More flexible and easier to work with than full-grain leather.

Cons:

• Not as durable as full-grain leather.
• May have a less natural appearance due to the sanding and buffing process.

Genuine Leather

Split leather is made from the lower layers of the hide that are separated from the top layer during the tanning process. Split leather is much thinner and less durable than full-grain, top-grain, or corrected-grain leather, making it unsuitable for many leather products.

Pros:

• The most affordable cut of leather.
• Easy to work with and flexible.

Cons:

• Not as durable as other cuts of leather.
• May have a less natural appearance due to the lack of natural grain.

In conclusion, the cut of leather you choose depends on your needs and budget. Full-grain leather is the highest quality and most durable, but it is also the most expensive. Top-grain leather is a high-quality alternative that is more affordable and easier to work with. Corrected-grain leather is the most affordable, but it is also the least durable. Split leather is the thinnest and least durable of all the cuts of leather, making it suitable for only a few leather products.