Tips for Identifying High-Quality Leather Products

Leather is an excellent material that can last for years. However, you need to find the right leather products to get the most out of them. You must consider many things when working with leather. Use these tips for identifying high-quality leather products before making your purchase.

Type of Hide

The first thing you should think about when looking at leather goods is the type of animal hide used in the manufacturing process. Cow, deer, and alligator are completely different animals, and their differences can significantly impact the quality of the end product.

Cattle hide is the most popular type since it’s easy to work with and readily available. It results in a firmer product that’s flexible, breathable, and waterproof. Ostrich hide is one of the strongest types of leather. It is also pliable, giving it a natural resistance to cracking and warping.

Grade

The grade of your leather products is another essential factor to consider. Most manufacturers divide their items into different categories depending on how well they are tanned. You can purchase full-grain, top-grain, split-grain, genuine, and bonded leather.

Full-grain leather is the highest quality, and bonded leather is made of scrap, giving it a shorter lifespan and less resistance to cracking. Most people stay away from low-grade leather, but understanding what loose grain leather is and how to fix it can save a lot of money if you’re willing to do some extra work.

Stitching

Most leather products contain stitching of some sort to hold the layers together. It can also create attractive designs and patterns. The type and quality of stitching will significantly impact the leather product’s value.

Heavier threads are more visible, while lighter ones are good for inconspicuous stitching. For most cases, bonded nylon thread is the best choice because it comes in various sizes. Saddle stitching is common for leatherwork since it locks the thread in place.

Find Leather Products That Will Last

If you want to get the most bang for your buck, there’s no better material than leather. It’s durable, comfortable, and lasts longer than most materials. Identifying high-quality leather products doesn’t have to be a chore. With these tips, you can make the best purchase of something that lasts!