Genuine leather is synthetic.
Leather is a timeless material that has been used for centuries in the fashion and upholstery industries. It is a durable, flexible and natural material that is synonymous with luxury and quality. However, not all leather is created equal, and many people are unaware of the differences between genuine leather and full grain leather.
Genuine leather is a term that is often used to describe leather products, but it can be misleading. Genuine leather is actually another name for embossed grain leather, which is a type of leather that is made by imprinting a pattern onto a lower quality leather surface. The embossed pattern gives the leather a uniform appearance, which can be appealing to some consumers.
However, there are several disadvantages to using embossed grain leather. Over time, due to the man-made synthetic surface, the leather can start to harden and crack with no chance of restoring it. Unlike natural leather, which can be oiled and conditioned to maintain its suppleness, embossed grain leather cannot be restored once it has become hard and brittle.
Moreover, what is seen on YouTube regarding leather restoration is often fake. They can look perfect after the restoration, but once there's a tension acting on the leather, they will break instantly. These "restorations" are often temporary fixes that do not address the underlying issue of the leather's deterioration.
On the other hand, full grain leather is a natural leather that is properly tanned, and it is able to maintain and restore its quality over time. Full grain leather is made from the top layer of the animal hide, which is the strongest and most durable part of the hide. This type of leather has not been sanded or buffed to remove imperfections, and it retains the natural grain pattern of the animal hide.
Full grain leather is a superior product to embossed grain leather in terms of quality, durability, and appearance. Full grain leather is able to withstand the test of time and usage, and it ages well with proper care. The longer you use it, the softer and comfier it gets, making it a great investment in the long run.
One of the reasons why full grain leather is such a valuable material is because of its natural imperfections. Unlike embossed grain leather, which is uniform in appearance, full grain leather has unique markings and variations that give it character and authenticity. Each piece of full grain leather is different from the next, making it a truly one-of-a-kind material.
Full grain leather is also more breathable than embossed grain leather, which is important when using it for clothing or upholstery. Leather that is able to breathe allows air to circulate, preventing it from becoming too hot or uncomfortable to wear or sit on for extended periods of time.
In terms of sustainability, full grain leather is a better choice than embossed grain leather. Full grain leather is a natural material that is biodegradable, whereas embossed grain leather is often made from synthetic materials that are not environmentally friendly. Full grain leather is also produced using traditional tanning methods, which are less harmful to the environment than modern synthetic tanning processes.
In conclusion, genuine leather is actually another name for embossed grain leather, which is a type of leather that is made by imprinting a pattern onto a lower quality leather surface. Embossed grain leather has several disadvantages over time, due to the man-made synthetic surface, the leather can start to harden and crack with no chance of restoring it. What is seen on YouTube regarding leather restoration is often fake. They can look perfect after the restoration, but once there's a tension acting on the leather, they will break instantly.
