Suede and Leather Lesson

There aren’t too many fabrics as well loved, even when well worn, than suede and leather.   More and more we are seeing these supple hides used in trendy upholstery items such as oversized ottomans, accessories such as frames and magazine holders as well as pillows, throws and even duvets covers.   But suede and leather are not without their pros and cons and are not maintenance free.  Mary Dobson tells us what to keep in mind when dealing with these materials.

Suede is the rough underside of leather and although it’s quite durable, it can be damaged by sunlight, heat and moisture.   Mary much prefers faux suede such as “ultra suede” over real suede for its wash and wear qualities.  Faux suede makes a beautiful ottoman or couch covering and can be virtually indistinguishable from the real thing.  Mary often makes duvets from faux suede because it has the softness without the weight of suede.  Reversible faux suede with it’s bound edges makes a great throw.   These fabrics are available in various weights and the price varies accordingly. 

Leather, unlike suede, can look more beautiful as it ages and for this reason Mary prefers the real thing.   It too can be damaged by moisture and light but not as quickly as suede.  Real leather can be quite expensive depending on the grade.  When buying an investment piece such as a sofa look for “top grain” leather which is generally less blemished and has usually been stained with an aniline dye, a process which allows the beautiful grain to show through.  Lesser quality leather usually has a colour painted onto the surface which hides the texture.  If you can’t afford a piece done entirely in top grain leather then at least try for higher quality material on the parts that will receive the most wear such as the seats, arms and inside back.  Nubuck is a popular option for clothing and upholstery.  Most people think that it is seude but it is actually leather that has been sanded.  The texture of woven leather and nubuck is being seen more and more in home accessories but at approximately $1200/yard many prefer woven synthetic leather which is closer to $500/yard.

Tools
When sewing real leather and suede you will need a leather needle.  Faux products can be sewn using a regular needle.  Special clips (that look like hair barrettes) are helpful to hold pieces together while you cut it.  For best results, Mary advises using a very sharp rotary cutter.  Use an even-feed foot on your sewing machine to keep the fabrics from creeping away from each other.

Care and Cleaning
Leather may look indestructible but occasional treatments will help prolong its life.  Buy pre-treated if you can and take home a spot cleaner.  Maintain your leather by keeping the dust off it.  It is a skin with pores that can clog and start to look tired.  A mild solution of vinegar and water will help take off surface grime.  For heavy duty cleaning there are chemicals available.  Don’t ever let water puddle on your leather as it will cause a permanent stain.  Saddle soap is a gentle way to keep your leather looking great.  Take a white facecloth, rub the saddle soap in and gently buff it off.

Suede should be vacuumed with a soft brush attachment or wiped with a soft clothes brush. Small spots can be removed with an art gum eraser.  Dry cleaning is always best for suede.  Alternatively, faux suede can be thrown in the washer and dryer.  
 

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