Types of Leather
Finished Split Leather
The middle or lower section of a hide with a polymer coating applied and embossed to mimic a grain leather. Finished splits should only be used in low stress applications because they are weaker than grain leather. If the polymer coating is left out it is often used to make suede.
Genuine Cowhide Leather
Cowhide is the most common leather used in the making of garments, furniture and leathergoods. Cowhide as a category covers a wide spectrum of textures and quality, but generally, it is quite durable, easy to care for and resistant to water and dirt. Cowhide leather will maintain its integrity, taking on the shape of the wearer, making it more comfortable with everyday use. This affordable, functional leather offers fashion, value and endless colours and style.
Naked Leather
...being without addition, concealment, disguise, or embellishment.
A leather with no surface, impregnated treatment of finish (other than dye)
which might mask or alter the natural state of the leather. Naked leathers are
valued highest by consumers. Soft from day one, does not require a break-in
period! Hides up to/usually 2.0mm thick Dyed but not finished, so some tiny
imperfections (like barbed-wire marks) are still present. This is desirable
to most people. Comfortable when brand new! They are more expensive because
the hides must be hand selected for uniformity.
Leather Care and Cleaning
Because unprotected leather is susceptible to spotting from water and other
liquids, a newly purchased leather item should be treated immediately to prevent
permanent stains. The use of too much oil and wax, however, can clog pores,
causing leather to lose its ability to allow air in and moisture out. Use a
high-quality water and stain repellent productn to help prevent water stains
and soiling. Apply immediately after purchasing your new leather item, and every
two or three months with regular use.
Avoid using cleaning fluid, shoe cream, saddle soap and mink oil. Use of mink
oil or other animal fats will darken leather.
We recommend that you test any protection and cleaning products on a hidden
area of the leather.
Avoid applying hair sprays and perfumes while wearing leather.
Repair hems with a small amount of rubber cement.
We recomend the fine products of Montana
Pitch-Blend - All-Natural Leather Treatments Handcrafted from Nature's
Best Ingredients.
Cleaning
Gently blot liquid stains with a clean cloth.
Winter salt stains your leather, wipe with a clean, damp cloth and dry naturally.
Visit a professional leather cleaner for more serious stains. Normal dry cleaning
methods will remove essential oils, causing the leather to crack, fade and shrink.
A cleaner who specializes in leather care will use a different method to clean
and condition the leather.
Care When Wet
If your leather becomes wet, allow it to dry at room temperature. (Never put
leather in the dryer.)
If your garment has faux fur trim and the fur gets wet, dry it with a hair dryer
set on the lowest temperature. Shake fur during the drying process, and periodically
during wear to maintain loft and maximize appearance.
Storage
Store your leather coat or jacket on a wide wooden, plastic or padded hanger
to help maintain its shape.
Store leather in a well-ventilated, cool, dry place. Avoid hot areas, such as
attics; or damp areas, such as cellars.
Cover your leather with breathable cloth, like cotton sheets, when storing.
Plastic bags or coverings will cause excessive drying.
Wrinkles and creases in leather should hang out. If ironing is necessary, place
heavy brown paper over the leather and use a cool to medium iron. Take care
not to overheat the leather, which will cause it to shine.
Avoid exposing leather to direct sunlight or heat for prolonged periods of time.
