Leather is the preserved skin (hide) of various animals (bird, fish, snake, cattle, sheep and goat etc.) There are numerous processes used to produce different leather types depending on its application such as upholstery, footware, accessories and clothing. The most common upholstery (cattle) leather finishes are:
Aniline… Leather in its most natural form. It has a luxurious feel, but can suffer from soiling, and fading due to light exposure.
Semi Aniline... Similar to aniline, with a pigmented finish applied to the top surface, improving its wearing properties.
Pigmented Full Grain... Leather with a protective coating that covers minor surface defects and greatly improves wear characteristics. The finish of the leather comprises a base coat, middle coat, and finish coat.
Pigmented Corrected Grain... Leather that has a lot of surface defects and can have the top surface removed. The leather is then finished in a similar fashion to that of Pigmented Full Grain, with a more dense finish coat to improve wear. A grain is embossed into the hide. This leather will have a very uniform surface but will deteriorate under flexing due to the dense finish coat.
Pigmented Finished Split (Bicast) ...A thick leather hide is split into two hides. The finish system is similar to Pigmented Corrected Grain. This is cheap leather and should not be substituted for a full grain leather.
What to consider
When purchasing a leather lounge find out if full grain leather has been used as the upholstery material. Well known brands imply a higher quality leather, unknown and many imported are often inferior corrected and bicast leather. Price is an indicator of the quality as is a guarantee on the leather quality. Cheaper furniture may have leather in the “right places” but not in the base and back section of the lounge suite. High quality imitation leather can be deceptive…Do you homework.
How can I care for Leather?
Leather is very a durable product (it has been in use long before vinyl was even invented) and nothing compares to the pure luxury and feel of a high quality leather item. It does require some care as a result of body oil, perspiration and dust, particularly in high wear areas. Regular cleaning will remove grime and prevent premature damage to the top surface. Use only products that have been specifically developed for leather upholstery and in particular the topcoat of the finish system. Avoid at all costs abrasive cleaners, detergents, saddle soap, solvents and silicones. A “one product does all” approach has its limitations.
A two step approach of (1) cleaning and conditioning the surface (2) Providing a protective film makes more sense.
Cleaning removes built up grime whilst a conditioner softens and moisturizes the top of the leather surface.
The application of a protector provides a sacrificial film to catch grime and increase the life of the top (protective) coating.
New Life Repair Services offers professional cleaning as well as DIY cleaning and protective kits.
I have damaged my Leather can it be repaired?
Absolutely, we have developed a repair system for leather that is worn and faded. Minor damage such as scuffs, scratches and small tears can be repaired, saving the considerable cost of reupholstering. We can also recolour your old leather suite to match your new décor at a fraction of the replacement cost. Service can usually be carried out on-site for your convenience. Contact your local New Life Repair Services Technician for fast, friendly service and an obligation free quote.
How effective are the processes?
Our skilled Technicians make a living out of repairing damaged upholstery. The processes we have developed are the world’s best practice. Repairs are hardly visible and will match the surrounding area. Refinishing of the colour coat surface provides a new look to a tired suite and gives great durability. We guarantee our workmanship and materials for one (1) year.
