Rawhide International: Natural Characteristics of Leather

When choosing leather, consider that it is a natural material and nature's signatures will be incorporated into it. These signatures may be in the form of healed scars, blemishes or other markings that should be considered natural beauty marks.

Colour variations also occur in aniline leathers. During the dyeing process, since pigments are not used, each hide absorbs the dye in varying amounts, much like wood varies when stained. An arm of a sofa may have a slightly different shade than the cushion or back of a sofa, because both pieces were cut from different parts of the hide, this is not a material defect, but evidence that it is natural leather.

A swatch or sample cutting represents the colour, texture and feel of the leather. However it will likely not be an exact match to the hides the customer receives. Variations are due to the fact that leather is a natural product with unique characteristics that differ from hide to hide.

Caring for Rawhide Leather

The qualities of leather, created by nature and preserved by the tanner, are superior to those of any manmade synthetic material. To maintain the investment and ensure years of comfort, consistent maintenance will increase the life of the furniture for many years.

Leather furniture is meant to get a little scratched up. It's part of the aging process that eventually produces a handsome desirable patina. Just like a pair of jeans, that look and feel better when they are broken in, leather furniture looks better with age. Blemishes are simply a part of the process.

Don't use coloured shoe polish, it will rub into clothes.
Some soaps can leave behind a soap scum or residue. Some treatments darken leather, creating greasy spots that will encourage mold and mildew problems.
Never rub or scrub spots.
All leather treatments, cleaners or conditioners should be tested in an inconspicuous spot on the furniture, in order to make sure there are no adverse chemical reactions.

Questions & Answers

Is Leather Hot?

Leather is constantly adjusting to its environment. It is cool to the initial touch but will adjust to your body temperature within 10-15 seconds. Your furniture will not be hot & sticky.

Will Leather Fade?

Yes. Direct exposure to ultra violet sun rays will cause fading and/or discolouration.

How Long Will Leather Last?

Leather pieces have been known to be passed down a generation after 20-30 years of use. Consistent maintenance will increase the life of your furniture for many years.

How Strong Is Leather?

Leather is the strongest upholstery material available.

Is Leather For Children?

Yes. Leather is great for children of all ages. It is easy to care for and can take the day to day use from your family.

Can You Mix Leather With Fabric?

Yes. Place the seating so that the furniture covered in leather will get the most use. Leather will not show the day-to-day wear that fabric will.

Can Leather Be Repaired If Scratched of Torn?

Yes. Other than the chance of scratches we seldom receive calls about leather being torn or ripped. If it does there are companies that specialize in these repairs.

Will Leather Soften After Years of Use?

Yes, but only slightly.

Can Leather Be Cleaned?

Yes. Most Leathers (example: protected) can be cleaned with a mild soapy solution and water. Unprotected Leathers (example: pure aniline) require special handling. Leather care products are recommended for their protection and cleaning. (Use a professional Leather Cleaning Service.)

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