TWO TYPES of Leather(Natural and Protected)

All of the leathers from Classic Leather are top-grain. During the tanning process each hide is separated into layers. The top layer (the top-grain) is the most valuable part of the hide, with exceptional strength and durability. The layers underneath are often referred to as "splits" or "bi-cast", meaning they are split from the top-grain layer. Classic Leather never uses splits or bi-cast on any part of their furniture.

After the tanning process the hides are separated into different categories based upon the amount of range abrasions, scars, insect bites, brands and other natural markings. The hides with the least amount of markings are used to produce full aniline leather, which on average is only about 3%. Hides with more markings are used to produce protected semi-aniline leather. The majority of these hides are used to produce protected corrected grain leather, which is the most prominent type of leather in today's market place.

Click - Full Aniline NATURAL Leather COLORS.
SHIPS in 7 weeks
This leather is prized and desired by the leather connoisseur as it is the finest of leathers with natural animal markings and grain. This leather gets its name from the aniline dyes that are used to produce it. Hides are soaked or tumbled with aniline dyes in large rotating stainless steel drums. The translucent dyes permeate the leather giving it color without covering up any natural markings or grain pattern. The process is much like applying stain to a wooden surface, you see the grain. Hides dyed in this manor vary in intensity of color due to the amount of dye that is absorbed by each hide. In the final milling process, the dyed hides are tumbled in large rotating drums to soften the hand or feel of the leather. Heat may also be added during the milling process to enhance the grain. The result of this tanning process is exceptionally soft leather in its most natural state. Color pigments or protective top coats are never added to full aniline leather.

Due to the lack of these additional protective steps, the aging characteristics of full anilines are different than other types of leathers. They will absorb moisture, oils and other spills that over time will produce a rich patina, much like a well-worn bomber jacket. Sunlight will readily fade full aniline leather, therefore exposure to direct sunlight should be avoided. Due to the natural characteristics of these leathers, Classic Leather cannot assume responsibility for their long term wearing qualities, please see the Classic Leather Natural Leather Policy.

Click - Semi-Aniline PROTECTED Leather COLORS.
SHIPS in 7 weeks
The tanning process of semi-aniline and full aniline leathers begins in the same way. Semi-anilines however, have the addition of color pigments applied to the surface followed by a clear finish, both providing protection to resist fading, stains and scratches. Therefore, these leathers are called semi-aniline.

After dying and milling, a pigment coat is lightly sprayed or rolled onto the hide surface. The coating is very light and is generally just enough to produce a uniform surface color. The added color pigment helps to control shade variations from hide to hide and provides a greater degree of protection from fading from sunlight. Finally, a top coat of synthetic transparent resin in either a high gloss or matte finish is applied as a protective coating to help resist scratches or stains.

Corrected Grain Leather - This is the most prominent type of leather in today's marketplace and perfect for the active family with children and pets. There are distinct differences that separate corrected grains from full anilines and semi-anilines. Full anilines and semi-anilines are full grain, meaning that no alterations have been made to the grain or surface of the leather. Corrected grains, as their name implies, have been altered. These hides are slightly grain corrected or buffed and lightly embossed with a grain giving the surface a uniform grain. They are then aniline dyed and color pigments are applied for color uniformity, followed by a finishing protective top coat that resists scratches, stains and fading from sunlight.

Questions? Please call 800-603-7133.