Leather Facts
Leather is a collective term for all hides and skins which have been tanned. It is not sufficient, however, to say that a piece of furniture has been upholstered in genuine leather. Just as there are differences between good and bad upholstery fabrics. All leather is not the same. It comes from different kinds of hides, which are tanned and treated differently and are finished in a variety of ways. Genuine leather is available both as a top grain and a split. Hides, like human skin, also have individual wrinkles and scars that make each one unique and natural. These natural markings are the hallmarks of the beauty of the leather.
Leather is the strongest upholstery material known to man. Nature has created its strong physical nature by weaving an intricate network of leather fibers. Leather will not readily burn or melt, and unlike most fabrics and vinyl, it is extremely difficult to puncture. Because of recent improvements in the tanning process, todays leathers will remain supple indefinitely. With the proper care, leather can stand up to the rigors of daily life in the home or office.
Unlike imitation leathers, genuine leather will not become hot or sticky in the summer or cold in the winter. Upholstery leathers used by reputable furniture manufacturers are permanently preserved in the tanning process and do not need any care and cleaning with saddle soaps, oils, etc. associated with other leather products.
There is no other material to match the feel and aroma of good leather. Over the years, leather becomes richer and suppler and acquires a soft patina much like a well-worn glove or saddle. No two pieces of leather are alike. Each has its own natural markings and shadings, which make it unique.
