A self-descriptive title to some thoughts around this old-world material we shape in form & in return does the same to us.
We find ourselves in different times, difficult times if you will. A time of uncertainty for what you hold in your hand to be a relevant carry to take into the near future. Are we ready to change inwardly, adapt our ways, hold fast to Truth in order to walk into this fast pace new-world that is speeding closer to meet us?
A philosophical, hey even pensive approach to a tangible material’s place. I guess we are all looking at things with caution, with question. I guess we are all still looking at what is real, what is not.
We’ve often detailed our pieces with a “first grade, full grain leather” tag. And when we talk either up close or over the inter webs with folks about the products, we have come to a know that folks don’t, in fact, know what this tag means.
We all buy or have bought Genuine Leather shoes, or Genuine Leather bags. Genuine leather is leather, it is simply not the best quality leather. Commercially that would make sense to offer a lower grade leather at a lower retail cost, and so move products faster. But, we feel we want to offer you the best we can, the best we can find locally too. First grade, full grain leather. Say what?
So here is the story & the rank:
- Full grain leather
- Top grain leather
- Split grade leather
- Genuine leather
- Bonded leather
Cowhides (or rawhides) can range in thickness anywhere from 6 – 10mm, yet to be tanned & usable for making leather goods.These hides are split according to the needs of the customer. The top section that is cut (or split) is the most valuable cut & it contains the hide’s full grain. All the rest is left over cuts that are split further.
Full grain leather contains the full grain of the hide, whereas the rest of the cuts that are split off does not. This means that all the strength of the hide is captured. It is durable, wear resistant & will not tear, Often the first thing to go after much wear, is the stitching (which is easily replaced) It is also the part of the hide that develops a beautiful colour with use. Richer & more unique with each individual’s application, also known as patina. It seldomly loses it characteristic leather smell too, adding yours to itself.
Top grain leather is next in line on the tier. Top grain leather differs from full grain in that the top & bottom part of the hide has been sanded & then sealed off with a pigmentation process. This removes all blemishes & natural grain from the top layer, & artificial grains/ patterns are often pressed on according to the client’s needs. The top grain is water resistant due to the added treatments & will not “heal” itself like full grain leather should it get a scuff or scratch. Designer handbags are typically made from top grain leather.
Full grain leather | Faber Travel Bag
Split grade leather is more commonly known as Suede. Now you know!
Genuine leather is leather, but it is the bottom/ nearly last part of the split or cut. It has none of the grain & is heavily processed for it to look like what the public sees as leather.
Genuine leather | processed & pressed to offer a “grain”
And then last, and lowest grade, is bonded leather. It is a blend of scraps, leather dust, vinyl, plastic & glue. This is most certainly the weakest on the scale & least desirable to use in a product due to it not having strength enough to compete with waxed canvas. It wears off with a sore sight for the eye.
Bonded leather | leather dust, vinyl & glue pressed onto a fabric
All this said, to keep you in the know of what’s on offer & what you get from us. First grade, full grain leather; the very best quality that we can source. And in all the uncertainty that we face & all the changes we are taking into our collective strides, one thing is sure with regards to what we hold in our hands to offer you; full grain leather products are more beautiful with time & come with much tale.
From us to you, a small bit of certainty offered. All the best with your last bit of 2020 & preparations for what waits.
Sincerely,
The Fabers
