FULL/TOP GRAIN LEATHER V/S SPLIT LEATHER

Full-grain materials can have different surface finishes; confirm the finish of the proposed sample.

Top-grain describes leather from the grain-side portion of the hide. Ask whether the surface is full-grain or corrected and how it is finished. The term alone does not establish a quality rank, stain resistance, flexibility or cost.

Split leather is leather created from the fibrous part of the hide left once the top-grain of the rawhide has been separated from the hide. During the splitting operation, the top-grain and drop split are separated. The drop split can be further split (thickness allowing) into a middle split and a flesh split. In very thick hides, the middle split can be separated into multiple layers until the thickness prevents further splitting. Split leather then has an artificial layer applied to the surface of the split and is embossed with a leather grain. Splits are also used to create suede. Suede construction and finish should be specified for the proposed material. Suede is "fuzzy" on both sides. Manufacturers use a variety of techniques to make suede from full-grain. A reversed suede is a grained leather that has been designed into the leather article with the grain facing away from the visible surface. It is not considered a true suede.For a suede or split-leather belt, compare the actual material, backing, finish and quoted cost for the agreed construction.