Together with stone, wood and wool, leather is one of the oldest used materials of mankind. Leather is an animal skin which is treated chemically, the so called tanning. Tanning makes leather flexible, robust, stretchable and durable. Preferably, skins of cattle, calves, goats or pigs are used. Due to regional or cultural conditions, also the skin of animals such as horses, kangaroos, reptiles or red deer might be used for leather.

 

The leather variety and the amount of goods manufactured of leather are extensive. Leather materials such as calf leather, crocodile or snake skin are quite commonly used in the fashion industry by designers and manufacturers. Leather clothes such as leather jackets or leather trousers are very convenient for motor cycling. Leather is also a highly appreciated natural material for shoes – either used for elegant high heels, comfortable sneakers or winter leather boots. Many industries use the natural material leather for their products: not only the accessories industry for small leather goods such as leather bags, leather briefcases or handbags, but also the fashion industry for coats, leather belts or clothes, or the furniture industry for leather furniture such as chairs, couches and sofas in different styles, leather colour and leather kinds, for example Nubuck leather.

 

Leather can also be differentiated by its origin, its manufacturing technique, the processing of the leather’s surface or its final purpose. Suede leather is made of deer or chamois. Leather gets a special treatment when used, for example, for bookbinder’s purposes or for the use in cars or furniture.

 

Due to its price and time intensive manufacturing processes leather is often replaced today by artificial fabric or imitations which look and feel like real leather. However, leatherette is mostly comparable to real leather when it comes to optics and robustness.

It is important for users of leather products, that maintenance and care are vital, especially when leather is used for car seats, furniture items or clothes. It is not recommended for leather goods to expose to direct sunlight. Furthermore, it is recommended to protect leather against dirt, dust and humidity.

 

Are you active in the international leather wholesale or do you want to have a comprehensive overview on worldwide clothing manufacturers, fabrics companies or other wholesalers in the textile industry, use this B2B textiles and leather directory as it offers an extensive database which helps to gather information and opens up opportunities for new leads and business contacts.