ALL ABOUT LEATHER

Leather has been used for clothing and shelter for just about as long as humans have been in existence, and for good reason. Its natural durability and beauty are unmatched. Not only will leather withstand the everyday use and abuse that comes with today’s busy lifestyles, but it also adds a wonderful layer of texture and color to a design when mixed with fabrics, metals, and wood. We’re happy to offer all non-skirted frames in your choice of leather or fabric.

Hickory Home Quality

Not all leathers on the market are of equal quality. We are committed to sourcing only the highest quality top-grain leathers from tanneries that use the finest finishing techniques. The result is a soft hand and a long-lasting natural product that only gets better with time.

Which leather is best for me?

The look, feel and durability of each leather is determined by the way it is finished. The best one for you will depend on your lifestyle and expectations. Whether you’re looking for something family-friendly, ultra-luxurious, or even if you desire the distressed look of an old bomber jacket, we’ve got you covered.

Full-Aniline Leather
(Light Protection)

Aniline leathers are made from the highest selection of hides available. They are tanned with translucent dyes that accentuate the natural markings on the hides. Aniline leathers are typically full grain, meaning the hide’s grain structure has not been altered. The finishing process involves the application of waxes and oils that help showcase and enhance the leather’s natural appeal.

Aniline leather is for the person who wants a beautiful, soft, natural, one-of-a-kind product. Similar to stained wood, each hide will have its own grain and markings that will be unlike any other. Expect to see color variations, even on the same piece of furniture, and some surface imperfections such as scars, wrinkles and brands, though these should be minor enough to contribute to the beauty of the leather rather than detract from its appearance. The lack of extra processing makes aniline leather the softest and most supple quality of leather you can find.

Be aware that full-aniline leather will form a lusterous patina over time and will fade when exposed to sunlight. It will absorb stains, and will scratch more easily compared to other leathers that have more protection added to them.

Semi-Aniline Leather
(Medium Protection)

Like full-aniline, semi-aniline leather is also high quality, full grain leather. The process for dyeing full-aniline and semi-aniline leather begins in the same way. The leather is placed into large vats containing aniline dye of the chosen color and left until the dye completely penetrates the hide to create a fully saturated and even-colored leather. That is where the process stops for full-aniline leather. Semi-aniline leather goes on to receive secondary pigments and /or finishes added to the top surface to correct blemishes and imperfections, and then a clear coating, usually polyurethane or a similar substance, is added for durability and protection against wear, stains, and exposure to light.

This extra processing gives semi-aniline leather a more uniform appearance that will not change over time and will not fade as quickly. It may not quite match the unparalleled natural look and supple feel of full-aniline, but it is still beautiful, rich leather that is soft to the hand. Therefore many families who buy leather furniture for everyday use opt for semi-aniline leather for its combination of beauty and protection.

Protected Leather
(Heavy Protection)

Protected or pigmented leather is the most durable and easiest to maintain. Therefore it is ideal for heavy use or active families. Tanneries use hides that are not suitable for aniline or semi-aniline leathers to create protected leathers. These hides usually have naturally occurring imperfections that are first lightly sanded or buffed, then embossed to give the surface a uniform grain. Most protected leathers are drum dyed, and then additional pigments and a protective coating are applied. The top coating, usually made of polyurethane or silicone, seals the leather and helps to prevent absorption of dirt, liquids, and oils that would otherwise cause the leather to become stained or dingy looking.

Although some of the natural softness is sacrificed in the process, protected leather offers the greatest resistance to stains, scratching, and fading. However keep in mind, this type of leather does not have the uniqueness of aniline leather and looks less natural.

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Leather Upholstery General Care

To keep your furniture looking its best, be sure to vacuum seat cushions, arms and back pillows weekly. Dust and dirt particles that accumulate on your furniture act as abrasives which may damage the surface of the leather creating a worn appearance. Also, avoid exposing your furniture to any heat source or direct sunlight to prevent drying and fading of the leather.

Spills – When cleaning a spill, blot with a clean white cloth and let air dry immediately. Do not rub spilled material into the upholstery leather. Leather will initially repel most liquids. If allowed to stand over a period of time, the spill may be absorbed by the leather. In this case, the stain may dissipate over time through evaporation or the natural fiber structure of the leather. Stubborn stains may be cleaned with distilled water and the suds from Neutrogena or other non-acidic soap on a dampened sponge. Gently rub side to side or front to back, but never in circles. Patting dry with a clean dry towel is recommended to remove excess moisture. Allow to air dry. It may be necessary to repeat this process for some stains.

Caution – Never use oil soap, detergents, furniture polish, abrasive cleaning products or multi-purpose cleaners on upholstery leather as they may damage the surface of the leather beyond repair.