What is leather?

Leather is pure nature. It is animal hides, which through a tanning process has been turned into a permanent and non-perishable form which can be used for e.g. leather furniture. The best hides in the world come from Europe where living conditions and climate imply that the animals sustain a minimum of natural markings (insect bites, scars, neck folds etc.). This makes European hides our preferred choice.

There are three different leather types; aniline, semi aniline and pigmented leather, each with their characteristics.

Aniline leather is characterised by soft touch and a ‘natural’ surface. Aniline leather can only be made from the finest raw hides. Only 5% of all raw hides are suitable for making aniline leather. Aniline has been through-dyed and the surface is untreated. In some cases the leather has been given a light dirt-resistant surface treatment. This treatment does not alter the appearance of the leather. All natural markings will be visible on aniline leather. The fact that the leather has not been given a finish means that it ‘breathes’ which contribute to the exclusivity and enhancing comfort. 

Semi-aniline is a full grain leather, with a slightly finish that has been completely dyed through.  This treatment makes the hides more resistant and fairly easy to maintain, but does not conceal the natural characteristics of the hide. Semi-aniline has the natural look of aniline leather combined with durability and easy maintenance, and is not as affected by grease and light as aniline. 10-15% of all raw hides meet the demands for semi-aniline hides.

Pigmented leather is through dyed with a coloured coating; it has often also been buffed or given an embossed grain pattern. This ensures a uniform appearance and resistance to fading while hiding larger defects on the hide. The advantage of choosing pigmented leather is that it is robust and very durable as well as easy to maintain. This makes pigmented leather extremely suitable for all types of furniture, domestic or contract. Pigmented leather is, despite its surface treatment, still soft, but the comfort will never be the same as with aniline or semi-aniline. Up to 80% of all raw hides are used for pigmented leather.