Manufacturing Italian Leathers

Besides pizza and mafia gangsters, the Italians are also well known for their leather. Did you know that Italian leather is considered the highest quality and most expensive leather on the market? Well, of course there is a reason for this factoid. Read on…

First of all, the composition of Italian leather is significantly different that other types of leather. Many different types of leather are derived from cow hide, while the majority of Italian leather is derived from ostriches. Shocked? Well, it’s true. That is one of the primary reasons why Italian leather is so much more costly and unique compared to other generic leather.

Secondly, Italian leather consists of a different texture compared to other types of leather.  This is because the Italians only use the best—“full grain” leathers. The full grain leathers are considered the first and most-top layer of the hide. The uppermost layer is the most durable and soft to the touch; also, the most expensive. J Other leathers come from underneath; which are less expensive and less supple.

Finally, Italian leather is natural. What the heck is the difference between “natural” and unnatural leather? Well, natural leather simply means that the leather is adaptable and responsive to the environment. Natural Italian leathers will caramelize or darken over time. The natural leather is like human skin—exposure to sunlight will cause it to tan and darken. The natural oils from within the leather will emerge outwards to the surface; giving the leather an incredibly rich and expensive look.

I hope this post was educational. This concludes our lesson for today brought to you by “Italian Leather Basics 101.”