Full grain leather – All you wanted to know about the finest leather

Have you ever heard the words full grain, or top grain while shopping for leather products, even if you did you might have probably ignored them due to lack of knowledge. It refers to the specific part of the animal skin used to make the leather. Full-grain leather is made of the uppermost layer just below the hairs, this part of the animal skin is thick and strong. Full grain leather is one of the finest quality leather, that retains its grains, scars and fibers in its natural form. If you love great things in life then full-grain leather must be your first choice when it comes to leather.

Why the name full grain?

Wondering why this name, well the answer is hidden in the process of extracting full grain leather. The animal hairs cover the topmost layer of skin, once the hairs are removed it reveal the skin with its natural grains. Except for separating the various layers of the skin, full grain leather is not processed further like other leathers which go through sanding, trimming, chemical or other processes. Since it is not processed, this untampered leather so obtained retains the actual character of the animal skin which encompasses the natural grainy texture and gives it that distinct appeal and the name. Full-grain leather is sent directly to tanneries to get the desired colour leather of the highest quality.

Characteristics of Full Grain Leather –

• Durable – The uppermost skin of the animal is exposed to the environment the most, making it rugged and durable. Products made out of full-grain leather are bound to last for decades, so it is the best choice for products that bear the maximum wear and tear on a daily basis.
• Water Resistance Capability – Full grain leather is made of the outermost skin having the most natural oils. Though no leather is water resistant, full-grain leather can substantially bear exposure to water without getting damaged.
• Patina – Leather is known for its patina, which appears as the leather ages. Since full-grain leather is highly durable, it is bound to stay for long, thus developing a great patina finish that enhances the overall appearance of the leather.
• Aesthetics – Each animal’s skin is different and has its share of grains, scars and other marks making it distinct. Full-grain leather being untampered by humans retains its natural appearance, making each product of full-grain leather different from others.

Uses of Full Grain Leather –

Full grain leather is tough, durable and has a distinct appeal making it suitable for premium leather accessories. However, full-grain leather is thick and requires expert craftsmen to bring it into perfect shape. Here is the list of products that are made to perfection using full-grain leather.

• Shoes – Shoes tend to bear the maximum wear and tear, which makes them susceptible to damage. Having shoes made of thick and durable material like full-grain leather ensures they last long, thus making full-grain leather the first choice of high-end shoemakers across the globe.
• Jackets – Leather jackets are more than just a piece of clothing, they are a reflection of your personality. Each full-grain leather has a different appearance due to its natural occurrence making it unique. Also, full-grain leather is breathable making it the perfect choice for jackets.
• Upholstery – Leather furniture elevates the overall look and feel of your house and office, certainly, you need upholstery material that is strong and durable. Full-grain leather is the perfect material for upholstery as it is breathable, distinct in texture and ages greatly with time giving it a classic look.
• Bags – Leather bags are prized possessions of women and men alike. Since you make a huge investment in those designer bags, it is recommended to go for full-grain leather which would stand the fate of time for years, provided you take regular care of your premium leather bag.
• Wallet – Wallets are loved by all, and we generally tend to use the same wallet for years. Full-grain leather wallets develop a great patina over time which enhances the overall appearance of your wallet, but it needs meticulous craftsmanship to bring full-grain leather to the perfect shape.

Full-grain leather is the best quality leather, which can easily last for decades and even generations provided you know how to care for your premium leather. You can seek professional support from De Leather Craft the leaders in leather care, cleaning, and repairs to bring your dull and damaged leather products back to life. The expert craftsmen at De Leather Craft have extensive experience in serving full-grain leather goods and understand the specific treatment required to treat full-grain leather products and extend their life.