How can you distinguish between natural leather and synthetic leather in handicrafts?

In the world of handicrafts, owning a piece made of leather represents an investment in quality and authenticity. But with the spread of manufactured alternatives, the challenge becomes how to distinguish genuine leather. Knowing the essential differences not only guarantees you value for your money but also gives you a unique artwork that lasts for years. In this guide, we will take you step by step to become an expert in recognizing genuine natural leather products, giving you full confidence in every piece you choose from handmade works that reflect your refined taste and add a touch of timeless elegance to your life.

What is Full-Grain Leather?

Full-Grain leather is considered the best and most durable type of leather ever. It is the top layer of the animal's hide that lies directly beneath the hair and is used in its entirety without removing or sanding away its natural imperfections.

This means that all the natural life marks of the animal, such as scars and wrinkles, remain visible, giving each piece a unique character and distinctive personality. Over time, this type of leather develops an antique and beautiful look known as "patina," which increases its value and beauty.

Is Bonded Leather Genuine?

Frankly, bonded leather is not real genuine leather. It is a manufactured material made of scraps and particles of natural leather that are ground and mixed with adhesives such as polyurethane, then pressed onto a layer of fabric or paper.

Although it may contain a small percentage of actual leather (usually between 10-20%), its quality and durability are far lower than natural leather, and it often cracks and peels quickly with use.

Are All Leather Products Expensive?

No, not all leather products are necessarily expensive. The price mainly depends on several factors, including the type of leather used. Full-grain leather is the most expensive, while other types such as genuine leather or split leather are more affordable options. In addition, craftsmanship plays a major role; handmade products are more expensive than those mass-produced by machines. Therefore, leather products can be found to suit different budgets.

Caring for Natural Leather in Different Climates

Since leather is a natural material, it is affected by the surrounding weather conditions, so care methods vary depending on the climate to keep it in the best condition.

In hot and dry climates

Extreme heat and direct sunlight can cause leather to dry, crack, and fade. To protect it, keep it away from direct sunlight as much as possible, and regularly use moisturizers and special leather balm to maintain its softness and flexibility.

In cold and humid climates

Cold can make leather stiff and more prone to cracking, while high humidity increases the risk of mold and mildew. In these conditions, leather products should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, with any moisture wiped away immediately with a dry cloth, and leather conditioners containing beeswax should be used to provide an extra protective layer.

Learn more: Why choose a handmade leather handbag?

How to Differentiate Between Genuine and Artificial Leather in Handicrafts?

Identifying genuine leather from its synthetic alternatives becomes easy when focusing on some key details. Here’s a quick checklist to help you make the right decision:

• Smell: Genuine leather has a rich, earthy scent that cannot be replicated. Synthetic leather usually smells chemical or plastic-like.
• Appearance: Look for natural imperfections such as wrinkles, minor scratches, and irregular pores. These signs indicate authenticity. Synthetic leather is usually too perfect with a uniform pattern.
• Edges: Genuine leather edges are rough and somewhat unfinished, while synthetic leather edges are smooth and precisely cut.
• Water Test: Genuine leather absorbs water drops within seconds, while water remains on the surface of synthetic leather without absorption.

How Does Leather Texture Reveal Its Authenticity?

The texture of leather is one of the most reliable indicators of its quality and authenticity. When you run your fingers over the surface of genuine leather, you’ll feel softness and flexibility with slightly irregular grains and creases—it is not completely smooth like glass. When pressed, genuine leather wrinkles in a way similar to human skin. In contrast, synthetic leather feels cold, rigid, and artificial like plastic, and when pressed, it quickly returns to its original shape without showing natural creases.

Smell Test: The First Step to Detecting Genuine Leather

Before touching the product or inspecting its details, bring it close to your nose. Smell is one of the immediate and direct signs of genuine leather. Natural leather has a distinctive, rich, earthy aroma that can only be described as the true "leather" smell. In contrast, synthetic or manufactured leather gives off a strong chemical odor similar to plastic or petroleum products, a smell that does not fade easily and immediately reveals the fake material.

FAQs

1. What is Vegetable-Tanned Leather and is it better?

Yes, it is a luxurious type of leather processed using natural plant materials. It is eco-friendly and develops a beautiful antique patina over time, making it a preferred choice for high-quality products.

2. Will the colors of leather products be identical to the pictures?

Since leather is a natural material, there may be very slight differences in shade from one piece to another due to the way leather absorbs dye. These subtle variations are part of the uniqueness of each handmade product and confirm its authenticity.

3. Are handmade leather products waterproof?

Natural leather is somewhat water-resistant but not fully waterproof. It can handle light rain droplets, but it should never be submerged in water. Using wax or protective sprays can enhance its resistance to liquids.

4. How long should a handmade leather product last?

With proper care, a product made of full-grain natural leather can last for decades and even be passed down to future generations. Its durability is one of the key reasons why it is considered a smart investment.

5. What do “natural imperfections” in leather mean?

They are the unique marks on the surface of leather, such as small scars, stretch marks, or insect bites that were on the animal’s skin. We do not consider them flaws but natural signatures that give each piece its unique identity.