Introduction To Split Grain Leather

When it comes to leather items, there is one material that offers a unique mix of affordability and durability while being a low-cost option to full-grain leather; this material is known as split leather. Split leather is often manufactured from the lowest layers of animal skins and goes through some chemical processing and embossing to get the desired texture of leather. 

Let's look at split leather, its characteristics, and how it compares to full-grain and top-grain leather. We will also look at several split leather applications and usages, as well as provide some recommendations for selecting the right split leather. 

What is Split Grain leather?

Split leather is a form of leather made from the bottom layers of an animal skin. During the leather production process, the hide is separated into two layers: the top grain and the bottom layer. The top grain layer, which is the upper section of the hide, keeps the original grain and leather properties and is utilised to manufacture top grain leather.

What is Split Grain leather made of?

Split leather may be manufactured from any type of animal hide, such as goat, buffalo, cowhide, horse, or bison. The split leather may be manufactured from the inside of any animal skin.

It entails washing the hide, separating the layers, and then polishing and sanding away any flaws or faults. Split leather skins are then embossed and dyed to give them the required colour and texture.

Why Choose Split Grain Leather?

Split leather is popular because of its smooth feel and low price. Split leather is an excellent choice for people seeking a less expensive option than full-grain or top-grain leather. It has a soft and breathable feel, making it suitable for use in garments and footwear.

Split leather items are simple to clean and maintain, making them less prone to damage. Split leather products may survive for decades if properly cared for. Split leather is a great option if you want a soft and comfy leather.

Key Points of Split Grain Leather

Split leather distinguishes itself from other types of leather in several ways. Let's look at some of the important aspects of split leather.

• Made from the lowest layers of hide: Split leather is created from the inner or bottom side of the leather hide and has a smooth, constant texture

• Appearance and feel: Split leather is renowned for its smooth and velvety texture, which feels exquisite to the touch. Split leather has a fuzzy surface.

• The price is low: Split leather is generally more inexpensive and less expensive than top grain leather, which is why many people prefer it.

• Simple to clean and maintain: Split leather is rather simple to clean and maintain. It can be readily cleaned with a brush to remove dirt and stains, and certain goods may even be washed with water.

Also Read : What is Bonded leather

Applications of Split Grain Leather

1. Uses of Split Grain Leather: Split leather has a soft and supple texture, thus it is utilised in a variety of items. Here are some popular uses for split leather:

2. Combining Style and Comfort with Leather Clothing: Split leather appears in a variety of clothing in the fashion world. Split leather jackets, vests, and skirts have a tough yet refined appeal and make a design statement that is both trendy and comfortable. Split leather's texture provides depth to these garments, increasing their visual attractiveness.

3. Leather Shoes: Stepping into Durability: Split leather footwear is well-known for its toughness and durability. Shoes constructed of this sort of leather are suited for a wide range of activities, from easy walks to more strenuous outdoor pastimes. The rough surface not only adds to the looks, but it also gives more grip, making split leather shoes a practical choice for many.

4. Furniture Leather: Elegance and Durability: Split leather is a common material for furniture upholstery. Split leather upholstery sofas, chairs, and ottomans show refinement while staying resistant to regular wear and tear. The unique texture lends individuality to the furniture, boosting the overall aesthetics of the living area.

5. Car Leather: Luxury and Comfort:  Split leather makes its way into automobile interiors, notably in seats and trim. Its durability and exquisite appearance make it a popular choice among automobile manufacturers looking to give their consumers with both comfort and elegance. Split leather seats have a textured surface that can improve the driving experience while also providing a sense of luxury.

How to care for Split Leather Products

Split leather items may last longer and have a lower environmental effect if they are properly cared for and maintained. Follow these instructions to preserve your split leather products in good condition:

• Clean carefully: To remove dirt and dust, use a soft, wet cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, since they might damage the leather's surface. Condition: Use a leather conditioner designed specifically for split leather to keep it supple and prevent drying or cracking

• Protect: Consider using a leather-specific waterproofing spray to avoid water damage. Keep in mind that waterproofing treatments may have an influence on the leather's breathability and natural feel, so use them sparingly and only when absolutely necessary. 

• Ensure proper storage: Store your split leather objects in a cool, dry place away from direct sunshine and heat sources. Extreme heat or humidity might cause the leather to dry out, crack, or get discoloured.

• Prevent overburdening: Avoid overfilling split leather purses or wallets, since this may cause stretching and loss of form. Be aware of the weight you place on your leather products, as severe pressure can weaken the seams and cause damage.

• Rotate the usage: To decrease wear and tear on your split leather items, alternate their use with other things. This allows the leather to relax and heal from daily use.

• Repair when necessary: If your split leather item gets ruined, seek expert assistance with repairs. Addressing concerns like scratches, rips, or worn seams as soon as possible will help to avoid future damage and extend the product's life.

How to choose Split Grain Leather?

Here's a guide on how to pick high-quality split leather:

• Experience the texture: The feel of authentic split leather is smooth and silky. When you run your fingertips across the leather surface, it should feel smooth and velvety.

• Check the tag and label: When purchasing split leather items, look for a label or product description that states split leather or the quality of leather.

• Check Thickness and Weight: Split leather should weigh more and be thicker than lower-grade leather or synthetic leather.

• Try smelling the leather: Split leather has a characteristic leathery scent. It should not contain strong chemical or synthetic odours, which might suggest fake leather.

• Take professional assistance: You may consider obtaining help from local leather stores or any leather craftsman to choose the proper split leather items.

Split Grain leather vs full grain leather

Split Grain leather vs Top Grain leather

Conclusion:

Split leather is an economical alternative to top grain and full grain leather, and it is extensively utilised in a variety of sectors, including apparel, footwear and furniture. In this article, we looked at various suggestions and techniques for selecting the correct split leather. With these helpful hints, you will be able to identify the characteristics of split leather and distinguish it from other varieties of leather.