Think You Know Your Leather?

Real Leather Vs Dupes

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Understanding the Types of "Leather"

Genuine Leather

Real leather is made from animal hide, which means every piece carries its own natural character. Over time, real leather can soften and develop a richer look with use.

Leather content: 100%

Bonded Leather

It looks convincing on first glance, but it's made by combining leftover leather fibres with synthetic binders and coating to look like leather.

Leather content: < 100%

Synthetic Leather

A man-made material (aka performance leather) designed to imitate the look of real leather. It is less breathable and does not age the same way as genuine leather.

Leather content: 0%

Which layer of Genuine Leather are you purchasing?

Which layer of genuine leather is used on your sofa?

Top Grain Leather

The outermost layer of the hide is known as top grain leather. This is the strongest and most durable part, commonly used in quality furniture and leather products. Within this category are full grain leather and corrected leather.

Slide right to read about Full Grain Leather →

Which layer of genuine leather is used on your sofa?

Full Grain Leather

Considered as one of the highest grades of leather in the top grain leather category because the natural surface preserves the natural grain, markings and texture, giving each piece a more authentic character. Hence, the hides are selectively chosen to minimise visible flaws, which makes full-grain leather more premium.

Slide right to read about Corrected Leather →

Which layer of genuine leather is used on your sofa?

Corrected Leather

Cellini leather furniture uses Corrected Leather. This is still top grain leather that has been corrected to reduce natural imperfections with refinishing for a more even and uniform appearance.

Slide right to read about Split Leather →

Which layer of genuine leather is used on your sofa?

Split Leather

Once the top grain layer is removed, the layer underneath is called split leather. It is usually used for small leather goods like wallets and belts.

Tips to Identify the Differences →

Get Swatch Samples

Some companies provide swatch samples for you to bring home. Use it to do the test at home.

Request Here

Wrinkles Test

Real leather tends to wrinkle more naturally when pressed, a little like skin. Dupes may form stiffer creases or look too flat and uniform.

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Burn Test

Genuine leather singes slightly and smells like burnt hair. Once the flame is out, it stops burning.

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Edge Peel Test

The edge of genuine leather is more integrated and resilient. It may scuff slightly but it typically won't peel apart in layers like Bonded Leather.

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Back Scratch Test

The back of genuine leather is stronger, more cohesive with a natural fibre structure. It is far less likely to fray or shed fibres like Bonded leather.

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