Glossary of Leather Terms

Welcome to Nibiru's comprehensive glossary of leather terms. In this guide, we aim to provide you with a deeper understanding of the intricacies of leather hides and Eva materials. Whether you are a leather enthusiast, a buyer, or simply curious about the world of leather, this glossary will serve as a valuable resource.

1. Full Grain Leather

Full grain leather is the highest quality grade of leather available. It is made from the top layer of the hide, which remains intact, without any surface alterations. This type of leather retains the natural imperfections, such as scars and wrinkles, that give it a unique and authentic appearance.

2. Top Grain Leather

Top grain leather is another high-quality category of leather. It is produced by removing the natural grain layer and any imperfections from the top surface of the hide. The resulting leather is more uniform in appearance and texture, making it ideal for applications that require a cleaner and more refined look.

3. Corrected Grain Leather

Corrected grain leather is a type of leather that has been buffed or sanded to remove the natural grain. It is then embossed with an artificial grain pattern to create a more consistent appearance. This process helps to hide imperfections and blemishes, resulting in a smoother and more uniform surface.

4. Split Leather

Split leather is obtained from the lower layers of the hide, after the top grain has been removed for other leather grades. Split leather is generally less durable and has a less natural appearance compared to full grain or top grain leather. However, it can be treated and finished to achieve a certain desired look.

5. Aniline Leather

Aniline leather is a type of leather that is dyed using soluble dyes, without covering the surface with a topcoat. This process allows the natural characteristics of the leather to show through, resulting in a soft, natural-looking finish. Aniline leather may develop a patina over time, adding to its unique charm.

6. Semi-Aniline Leather

Semi-aniline leather is similar to aniline leather, but with a thin protective topcoat applied to enhance durability and resistance to stains and fading. This type of leather maintains some of the natural characteristics while offering improved practicality.

7. Nubuck Leather

Nubuck leather is created by sanding or buffing the outer surface of the hide to produce a soft and velvety texture. It is often mistaken for suede, but unlike suede, nubuck is made from the top grain of the hide. Nubuck leather is known for its luxurious feel and is commonly used in high-end products.

8. Embossed Leather

Embossed leather is leather that has been stamped or engraved with a pattern or design. This process is done to add texture and visual interest to the leather. Embossed leather can imitate the look of other materials, such as reptile skins or fabrics, providing a cost-effective alternative.

9. Pull-Up Leather

Pull-up leather is aniline or semi-aniline leather that has been treated with natural oils and waxes. When stretched or pulled, the leather lightens in color, creating a distressed or vintage effect. This characteristic makes pull-up leather a popular choice for furniture and accessories.

10. Veg-Tanned Leather

Veg-tanned leather, also known as vegetable-tanned leather, is a type of leather that is naturally tanned using organic materials, such as tree bark. This traditional method produces a durable, firm, and environmentally friendly leather. Veg-tanned leather is commonly used for belts, bags, and other sturdy goods.

11. Eva Materials

In addition to leather hides, Nibiru also offers high-quality Eva materials. Eva, short for ethylene-vinyl acetate, is a copolymer that possesses excellent impact resistance, flexibility, and waterproof properties. It is often used in the production of insoles, shoe soles, and other applications that require cushioning and shock absorption.

Concluding Thoughts

We hope this glossary has provided you with a better understanding of the various terms associated with leather hides and Eva materials. By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you can make more informed decisions when purchasing leather products or exploring different leather options for your projects.

At Nibiru, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality leather products that meet the needs and expectations of our customers. Whether you're a leather enthusiast, a craftsman, or a business looking for reliable leather materials, we are here to provide you with exceptional products and service.

Explore our wide range of leather hides and Eva materials today and discover the endless possibilities they offer for your next project.