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Split leather is making a strong come-back because of its many benefits.
Suede
Suede is a well-liked type of split leather. It is made from the inner layer of animal skin, mainly lamb, goatskin, or pigskin. The outer layer is smoothened and cut to expose a soft inner layer with a nubbed surface.
Suede has a soft, velvety texture that gives it a sophisticated and classy feel. It is mainly used in apparel, shoes, and accessories such as bags, wallets, and belts, as well as home décor items like furniture and curtains.
Embossed split leather
This is another popular option for many businesses. It is created by rolling custom-made patterns or designs onto the surface of the split leather.
This process permits the use of cheaper split leather while providing the aesthetic properties of the more expensive top-grain leather. It is often utilized in the manufacturing of handbags, cases, and other accessories where visual design is essential.
Napa split leather
Napa split leather is derived from both sides of the hide, just like normal Napa leather. However, unlike regular Napa leather, which is made from the outer layer of the hide, the embossed layer is treated to produce a soft, lustrous finish. This kind of split leather is largely used in luxury mondaine goods like bags, wallets, and watches due to its attractive appearance and silky texture.
Pebble split leather
Pebble split leather is produced using a special machine that treats the leather with heat and texture to produce small, rounded grains. This kind of leather provides a wear-resistant surface that hides scratches and scuff marks. It is widely used in places with phones, bags, and furniture.
Coated split leather
Coated split leather is prepared by covering the flesh side with a synthetic material or resin layer and often adds a polyurethane coating. This practice improves its resistance to moisture, stains, and general wear and tear. Coated split leather maintains the cheaper side of the hide benefits while enhancing its functionality and durability.
Color blocking and contrasting textures
Color blocking involves putting together 2 or more solid colors that strongly contrast against each other to make wear look classy. The colors can also come in pebbled split leather with its textured surface and smooth split leather for a chic look that enhances the split color, at least the leather's positional style.
Split leather can also be utilized to create functional and fashionable designs that include both aesthetics and practicality.
Using perforations and laser-cut details
Split leather can be amended by introducing perforations or laser cut to enhance breathability and stylishness, respectively, especially in apparel and accessories. These details not only make the splitting leather look classier but also add a dimensional feel to design.
Introducing metallic hues and finish
Fashion designers are known to increasingly use metallic finishes like golden, silvery, or bronzy on split leather to make bags, shoes, and jackets shine. Splitting the leather with metallic colors provides it with a modern, sleek outlook that can uplift, making it more appealing.
Asymmetrical designs
In fashion, symmetrical splits are discouraged in design, especially for garments and bags. Using this idea in split leather products adds an innovative twist to traditional designs. It can be further accentuated by off-center zippers, unusual flaps, and differing lengths.
Combining split leather with other materials
For added texture and stylistic purposes, combining split leather with other materials such as canvas, wood, and metals will produce aesthetics that are not normal with simple leather usage. Mixes can be made in the types of stitching, colors, and placement to get a new cohesive look that makes the product stand out.
Split leather working with suede
Since it's budget-friendly, split leather can also be transformed into sophisticated items. One of the most popular transformations is into suede, which has a classy and soothing feel. Suede can be used on jackets, shoes, bags, and furniture.
Suede provides a luxurious feel while keeping the costs manageable. Hence, this makes split leather popular among manufacturers who aim for quality but are constrained by prices.
Demand in various industries
The texture of split leather allows it to be used in multiple industries, including fashion and automotive. The fashion industry makes use of split leather for clothes, footwear, and accessories due to its ability to be stylish and durable at the same time. The automotive industry also prefers split leather for car upholstery because of its appealing appearance and easy maintenance qualities.
Comparison with genuine leather
Even though split leather isn't as tough and prestigious as genuine leather, they can serve almost the same purpose in a lot of cases. People nowadays don't have to worry about the negative sides of split leather, especially its vulnerability because technological advances enable it to be treated and protected against stains, moisture, and wear and tear.
Increase in the number of eco-friendly products sourced from split leather
This is because the processing of hides to create split leather generates less waste than other leather products. With the global eco-conscious populace increasing every day, there is a significant rise in the demand for sustainable goods, including those made from split leather.
Growing market for split leather products
As more knowledge is gained on the versatility and durability of split leather, the global market for split leather products is increasing fast. From entry-level luxury items to more inexpensive functional products, the appeal of split leather spans several price brackets and customer preferences.
Look for reputable suppliers with high customer reviews who can provide you with split leather
When placing bulk orders, do research and make sure to order from reputable suppliers with good customer reviews to avoid being conned.
Decide the kind of split leather you want
All kinds of split leather come with unique benefits. For instance, suede has a soft, luxurious look, while pebbled leather is likely scratch-proof. Decide early enough, considering the customer demographic and the end use.
Know the grades
Similar to other leathers, split leather also comes in grades. Higher-grade suede, for example, will be softer and more durable than the low-grade one. Grade the types of leather you want and get a trusted supplier to provide you with them.
Request samples
Don't be afraid to request samples, especially when buying in bulk. Split leather can be quite unique in texture and appearance, and suing for samples allows firsthand examination of great quality, softness, and color.
Examine the thickness
When split leather is too thick, it is stiffer and harder to work with. On the other hand, where it is too thin, it may not be robust enough for heavy usage. Assess the right thickness depending on the leather item's end use.
Assess the craftsmanship
When placing orders for leather goods, pay close attention to the craftsmanship around it. See to it that the stitching is strong and consistent and that there are no visible glue marks. Leather never lies, and it will always show the quality of the items in which it has been used.
Consider the cost
Although split leather is more affordable than top-grain and full-grain leather, it is still necessary to consider pricing to avoid making leather goods that are too expensive. The market price can be affected by the variety of leather and the quality of its craftsmanship.
Yes, split leather can be worth it, especially when one cannot afford top-grain or full-grain leather. While it may have its downsides, with new technologies, it is becoming more resistant to stains, moisture, and wear and tear.
Split leather is ideal for making items where it does not need to be exposed on the surface, such as linings and underpinnings. It is also used in making low-to-mid-range products such as suede apparel, bags, car interiors, and furniture, where affordability and comfort are priorities.
