Choosing the Right Leather: A Guide to Leatherette, Rexin, PU, Faux, and Genuine Leather - With Prices and Manufacturers

• Genuine leather is made from animalides, offering durability and a natural look, but it’s costly and requires maintenance, with ethical concerns due to animal sourcing.
• Faux leather is a broad term for synthetic alternatives, including PU leather and leatherette, which are vegan-friendly and cheaper but less breathable, with varying environmental impacts.
• PU leather, made with polyurethane, being durable and closely mimicking genuine leather, while leatherette is often PVC-based, less durable, and more plastic-like.
• Rexin, historically a brand, now refers to affordable synthetic leather, typically PVC-based, used in upholstery and car interiors, with lower durability compared to PU leather.
• Market prices vary: genuine leather ($20–$150/m²), PU leather ($2–$10/m linear), leatherette ($1–$5/m linear), Rexin ($1–$3/m linear), depending on quality and region.

Genuine leather is crafted from animal hides, primarily cowhide, processed through tanning to enhance durability and flexibility. It’s known for its natural texture, breathability, and ability to develop a unique patina over time, making it ideal for long-term investments like furniture or jackets. However, it’s more expensive, typically costing $20–$150 per square meter, and requires regular maintenance, such as conditioning, to prevent drying out. Ethical concerns arise due to animal sourcing, and the tanning process can have environmental impacts, including water and chemical usage.

Faux leather, a broad term, includes materials like PU leather and leatherette, designed to mimic genuine leather’s look and feel. They’re vegan-friendly, affordable, and easier to maintain, but generally less breathable. 

PU leather, made with polyurethane, is durable and closely resembles genuine leather, costing $2–$10 per linear meter. Leatherette, often PVC-based, is cheaper ($1–$5/m linear) but less durable, with a plastic-like feel that can crack or wear off. 

Rexin, historically a brand, now refers to affordable PVC-based synthetic leather ($1–$3/m linear), used in upholstery and car interiors, but it’s less durable under flex wear. 

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Comprehensive Analysis of Leatherette, Rexin, PU, Faux Leather, and Genuine leather is derived from animal hides, primarily cowhide, processed through tanning to enhance durability and usability. It is categorized into full-grain (highest quality, retaining the natural grain), top-grain, and split-grain, with full-grain being the most durable and expensive. Research suggests that genuine leather offers a natural texture, unique grain patterns, and an earthy scent, developing a patina over time that enhances its aesthetic appeal. It’s made from collagen-based animal skins, ensuring natural breathability.Market prices for genuine leather are typically quoted per square meter, as it’s sold by area due to the varying sizes of hides. From sources like BuyLeatherOnline and Leatherite, prices range from €20 to €140 per square meter for standard to exotic types, which, at an exchange rate of approximately €1 = $1.10, translates to $22 to $154 per square meter. More commonly, standard types range from $20 to $150 per square meter, as seen in listings from Buckskin Leather Company and IndiaMart, where prices per square foot (converted to per square meter) align with this range.Prominent manufacturers include Horween Leather Co., Buckskin Leather Company, and Tandy Leather, known for high-quality hides used in upholstery, apparel, and accessories. For example, Horween Leather Co. offers a range of full-grain and top-grain leathers, while Buckskin Leather Company provides detailed pricing lists.

2. Faux leather, also known as synthetic or artificial leather, encompasses a range of man-made materials designed to mimic genuine leather, often marketed as a vegan, animal-free alternative. It’s often made from plastic-based materials like PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or PU (polyurethane) coated on a fabric base, such as polyester or cotton. The evidence leans toward faux leather being popular for its affordability and wide range of colors, but it’s less breathable and may not age as well, potentially cracking over time.Market prices for faux leather vary widely, typically quoted per linear meter for rolls, as seen on platforms like Alibaba and IndiaMart. The price range is broad, from $1 to $20 per linear meter, depending on the type (PU, PVC, etc.) and quality. For example, higher-quality faux leather can overlap with PU leather prices, while lower-end options align with leatherette.Prominent manufacturers are varied, as faux leather includes multiple subtypes, but specific manufacturers for PU and leatherette are detailed below.

3. PU leather, or polyurethane leather, is a specific subset of faux leather, characterized by a polyurethane coating applied to a fabric backing, such as polyester or cotton. It seems likely that PU leather is currently more popular than PVC-based options due to its durability and realistic appearance, closely mimicking genuine leather in texture and grain. The manufacturing process involves multiple steps for a leather-like finish, making it durable and resistant to wear.Market prices for PU leather are typically quoted per linear meter, with standard widths around 54 inches (1.37 meters). From Alibaba listings, prices range from $1.50 to $6.10 per linear meter for bulk orders, with higher quality options up to $10 per linear meter, as seen in Von Baer discussions on quality. Converting to per square meter, assuming a 1.37m width, prices range from approximately $1.09 to $7.30 per square meter, but per linear meter is the standard quote.Prominent manufacturers include Kuraray (known for Clarino), Alcantara, and Von Baer, with Kuraray offering high-performance PU leather for automotive and fashion, and Von Baer focusing on luxury synthetic options.

4. Leatherette, often used interchangeably with faux leather, typically refers to PVC-based synthetic leather. It’s made by covering a fabric base with a soft PVC layer, embossed to resemble leather, and has been historically used in applications like bookbinding and 20th-century camera casings. It seems likely that leatherette is very affordable, with prices ranging from $0.66 to $29 per linear meter on Alibaba, but more commonly $1 to $5 per linear meter for standard types, as seen on IndiaMart.Pros include affordability, water-resistance, and ease of cleaning, but cons include lower durability compared to PU leather, with a plastic-like feel that can wear off or crack over time. Environmental concerns arise from PVC production, involving chemicals like dioxins.Prominent manufacturers include American Biltrite and Fabri-Tech, with American Biltrite offering various PVC-based synthetic leathers for upholstery and automotive uses.

5. Rexin, originally a registered trademark of Rexine Ltd in the UK, was a leathercloth fabric made from cloth surfaced with nitrocellulose, camphor oil, alcohol, and pigment, embossed to look like leather. Discontinued in 2005, the term now refers generically to similar synthetic leather materials, often PVC-based, used in upholstery and car interiors. It’s lightweight and cost-effective, with prices around $1 to $3 per linear meter, as seen on IndiaMart and Alibaba listings.Pros include affordability and ease of use, but cons include lower durability, especially under flex wear, and environmental concerns due to PVC. Historically, it was popular in the early 20th century for motor vehicle interiors, costing about a quarter of genuine leather.Prominent manufacturers include SAE Fabrics and Oriental Rail Infrastructure Ltd, with SAE Fabrics offering Rexin for upholstery and automotive applications.

Choosing between these materials depends on your specific needs:

• For durability and a natural look: Opt for genuine leather, ideal for long-term investments, but be prepared for higher costs and maintenance.
• For affordability and animal-friendly options: Faux leather, particularly PU leather, offers durability and versatility, suitable for high-traffic areas like office furniture.
• For budget-conscious projects: Leatherette or Rexin may suffice, though they are less durable and more plastic-like, best for short-term or low-wear applications.

Each material has its place, whether you’re upholstering a sofa, designing a jacket, or outfitting a car interior. By understanding their differences, you can align your choice with budget, values, and functional requirements, ensuring satisfaction and sustainability in your projects.

Leather vs. Synthetic: A Detailed Comparison of Materials for Fashion and Furniture

When it comes to choosing materials for furniture, clothing, and accessories, the variety of leathers and leather alternatives can be confusing. Leather, faux leather, leatherette, PU (polyurethane), Rexin, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), synthetic leather, and vegan leather are all popular choices, each with its own set of characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks. This blog aims to differentiate these materials in all aspects, helping you make an informed decision based on durability, appearance, maintenance, environmental impact, and cost.

1. Genuine Leather

Description: Genuine leather is made from the hides of animals, primarily cows, although goat, buffalo, and exotic leathers are also available. It is tanned and treated to produce a durable, flexible material that ages well.

Pros:

• Durability: Highly durable and can last for decades with proper care.
• Aesthetics: Develops a patina over time, enhancing its appearance.
• Comfort: Breathable and adjusts to body temperature.

Cons:

• Cost: Generally more expensive than synthetic alternatives.
• Maintenance: Requires regular conditioning and waterproofing.
• Ethical concerns: Animal welfare and environmental impact of tanning processes.

2. Faux Leather

Description: Faux leather, also known as synthetic leather, is a fabric intended to mimic the look of real leather. It is usually made from a plastic base and then treated with wax, dye, or polyurethane for color and texture.

Pros:

• Affordable: Less expensive than real leather.
• Variety: Available in various colors and textures.
• Easy to care: Generally just needs wiping and is not prone to crack or fade as quickly as real leather.

Cons:

• Durability: Less durable than real leather; can peel or crack over time.
• Not breathable: Can feel less comfortable in hot weather.
• Environmental impact: Made from non-renewable fossil fuels, though recyclable options are increasing.

3. Leatherette

Description: Leatherette is a type of faux leather, made from fabric base covered with a plastic coating. It is designed to replicate leather more closely than other synthetics.

Pros:

• Economic: Cheaper than genuine leather.
• Low maintenance: Easy to clean and resistant to stains and water.
• Uniform appearance: Provides a consistent color and texture that does not change over time.

Cons:

• Wear and tear: Not as durable; susceptible to tears and cracks.
• Comfort: Less breathable, which might be uncomfortable in warm climates.
• Eco-friendliness: Typically not biodegradable and has a larger environmental footprint.

4. PU (Polyurethane)

Description: PU leather is a specific type of faux leather made from a synthetic backing coated with a soft polyurethane layer. It is one of the most common types of synthetic leather.

Pros:

• Flexibility: Softer than PVC, making it easier to work with in fashion.
• Vegan: Does not use animal products.
• Water-resistant: Does not absorb water, making it easy to maintain.

Cons:

• Breathability: Like other synthetics, it does not breathe.
• Durability: Can crack and wear over time.
• Environmental concerns: Though less than PVC, PU still raises concerns due to its chemical makeup.

5. Rexin

Description: Rexin is a cloth-backed vinyl that is used to mimic the look of leather more closely than other synthetic leathers. It is often used in upholstery and bookbinding.

Pros:

• Durability: Tough and durable with proper maintenance.
• Cost-effective: Cheaper than real leather.
• Easy care: Simple to clean and maintains its look over time.

Cons:

• Feel: Less soft and pliable compared to genuine leather.
• Breathability: Can feel sticky and uncomfortable in hot environments.
• Chemical smell: May emit a mild odor when new.

6. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

Description: PVC leather, also known as vinyl leather, is made by applying one or more layers of PVC on top of a fabric backing.

Pros:

• Waterproof: Highly resistant to water and stains.
• Inexpensive: Generally cheaper than PU and much cheaper than real leather.
• Durable: Resistant to wear and tear in mild conditions.

Cons:

• Stiffness: Tends to be stiffer than other faux leathers.
• Environmental impact: Releases dioxins during manufacture and disposal, which are harmful to the environment.
• Comfort: The least breathable of faux leathers, making it uncomfortable for clothing.

7. Vegan Leather

Description: Vegan leather is a term used for all synthetic leathers that do not use animal products. It can be made from PU, PVC, or innovative materials like pineapple leaves, cork, and apple peels.

Pros:

• Ethical: No animals are harmed in the production.
• Innovative materials: Often incorporates recycled and sustainable materials.
• Variety: Available in many textures and colors.

Cons:

• Durability and feel: Varies widely depending on the materials used.
• Cost: Some high-end vegan leathers can be expensive.
• Care and longevity: May require specific care instructions depending on the base material.

In conclusion, the choice between these materials depends largely on personal priorities such as budget, ethics, environmental concerns, and intended use. Understanding these aspects helps in making a decision that aligns with your values and needs.

  

Discovering Defects in Finished Leather Hides: Techniques and Tips

There are several ways to identify defects in finished leather hides. Here are a few methods you can use:

Visual inspection: Look closely at the surface of the leather hide to identify any visible defects such as scars, blemishes, scratches, or stains. Check the entire surface of the hide, including the edges and corners.

Physical examination: Run your hands over the surface of the leather hide to feel for any bumps, lumps, or rough spots. Also, try folding the leather hide to see if it cracks or breaks.

Water test: Sprinkle a small amount of water on the surface of the leather hide and wait for a few minutes. If the water is absorbed quickly, it may be an indication that the leather is low-quality or has not been properly finished.

Light test: Shine a bright light on the surface of the leather hide to identify any imperfections that may not be immediately visible. This will help to highlight any uneven color or texture.

Smell test: Take a sniff of the leather hide to see if it has any unpleasant odors that may indicate a problem with the tanning process or quality of the hide.

By using these methods, you can identify any defects or imperfections in the finished leather hide before you begin working with it. This will help you to choose the best quality leather hides for your projects.

Test quality of Leather

There are several ways to test the quality of leather, some of which include:

Look and feel: High-quality leather should feel soft, supple, and smooth to the touch. It should also have a consistent texture and color. If the leather is rough, stiff, or has visible blemishes, it may be of lower quality.

Smell: High-quality leather should have a distinct, pleasant aroma. If the leather smells musty or chemical-like, it may not be of good quality.

Flexibility: Good leather should be able to bend and flex without cracking or breaking. Try gently bending the leather to see how it responds.

Water resistance: High-quality leather should be able to resist water and other liquids to some degree. Try putting a small amount of water on the leather and see how it reacts.

Stitching and finishing: Check the stitching and finishing of the leather item to ensure that it is well-made and durable. Look for even, tight stitches and well-finished edges.

Tanning method: The tanning process used to create the leather can impact its quality. Look for leather that has been tanned using natural methods, as these tend to produce higher quality leather.

By examining these qualities of the leather, you can get a good sense of its quality and durability.

From Fashion to Function: How Leather is a Daily Life Essential

Leather is a versatile material that is used in various ways in our daily lives. Here are some common uses of leather:

Clothing and Accessories: Leather is used to make jackets, coats, pants, skirts, boots, belts, and other accessories. Leather clothing and accessories are durable, stylish, and provide good protection from the elements.

Furniture: Leather is used to make furniture such as sofas, chairs, and ottomans. Leather furniture is comfortable, durable, and easy to clean.

Car Interiors: Leather is commonly used to make car seats, steering wheels, and other interior components. Leather car interiors are stylish, comfortable, and easy to clean.

Luggage and Bags: Leather is used to make luggage, backpacks, purses, and wallets. Leather bags and luggage are durable, stylish, and provide good protection for your belongings.

Sports Equipment: Leather is used to make sports equipment such as footballs, baseball gloves, and boxing gloves. Leather sports equipment is durable, comfortable, and provides good grip.

Overall, leather is a versatile material that adds durability, style, and comfort to many aspects of our daily lives.

Do Leather Goods get unusable with age & time?

Leather is a natural material that can change in appearance and texture over time, but it typically does not become completely unusable with age. In fact, some people even prefer the look and feel of aged leather as it can develop a rich patina that adds character and uniqueness to the item.

However, leather can become more brittle and prone to cracking or tearing if it is not cared for properly or exposed to extreme conditions such as excessive heat or moisture. In addition, certain types of leather may be more prone to damage than others, depending on their thickness, quality, and treatment.

To keep leather in good condition and prevent it from becoming too damaged with age, it is important to care for it properly. This can include regularly cleaning the leather with a gentle cleaner and conditioner, storing it in a cool, dry place, and avoiding exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. With proper care, leather can remain in good condition for many years and even decades.