In a world of manmade materials, real leather is a natural material like gemstones and exotic woods, and like all natural materials, leather hides vary in beauty and integrity. All manners of influences can affect their look and texture - genetics, environment, and handling of the hide to name a few.
Theres nothing quite like the look and feel of leather. Its casual, comfortable and the way it wears over time adds character rather than
detracting from the resilient material. Furniture makers have always known this, which is why leather sofas and club chairs have been basic staples of homes and offices for years.
Another factor that makes leather attractive is its versatility. It comes in nearly every color or texture you can imagine, from the smoothness of
ultra-contemporary to the aged, distressed looks found in old European libraries.
It used to be that only the upper crust could afford to own real leather furniture; the rest of us had to make do with synthetic substitutes. But
in recent years, prices have started to come down as leather has become more popular. Manufacturers are offering a greater choice in styles, making it
possible to find leather to suit almost every taste and budget. Before you invest in this practical, versatile furniture, saddle up with some savvy buying tips.
Grade is the most important feature of leathers qualityand an indicator of durability and price. Manufacturers and showrooms use similar vocabulary to describe grade, which makes the buyers job easier. Top grain indicates leather taken from the desirable outer surface of the hide. Leathers taken from the lower surfaces are split grains, and are much weaker. All but the
least expensive furniture should be made from top grains.
Top-grain leathers are graded based on the ways manufacturers prepare the leather.
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 coating or pigment, giving them slightly better protection against stains and fading. Pigmented leathers are fully treated with surface color. Made from lesser-grade hides, they are stiffer than anilines, but also more stain- and scuff-resistant, and more affordable.
Leathers are graded by how much manufacturers have to do to get them ready for market. Nearly perfect, mark-free hides are rare and, therefore, highly prized. Most anilines will have visible markings, such as wrinkles and scars, that contribute to their natural beauty. Like a well-worn wallet or bomber jacket, they develop a lustrous patina with age and use.
Keep in mind that added finishes and surface pigments arent necessarily bad. In fact, if you prefer more consistent color in your furniture, untreated anilines may not be for you. Finishes and pigments also provide greater protection from scratches, stains, and sun fading. The "best" leather, in other words, is by no means always the best choice for your family or situation.
About The Author
Jeremy Wilson has run his own successful business selling leather furniture for over 20 years. He has also been a consultant to numerous home interior magazines where he has written numerous articles on selecting a leather sofa.
You can find out further information such as his choice of the internets top leather sofa retailers by visiting his website at
http://www.leathersofadvice.com