Carefully selected genuine leather offers natural texture, lasting durability, a premium appearance and refined handfeel.
Selected genuine leather materials can be sourced from LWG-audited supplier facilities. Availability depends on the selected leather article and project requirements.
MATERIAL SELECTION GUIDE
Genuine leather is used for custom leather goods where natural texture, material feel and leather-specific construction are part of the product direction. The current SIMPLY range includes a genuine leather bifold wallet with lining, hardware and stitched construction.
Genuine leather has a natural fiber structure and visible variation, while PU / vegan leather is engineered for a more controlled surface and repeatable finish direction. Selection should follow the product design, handfeel, appearance and sourcing requirements rather than treating either option as universally better.
Genuine leather products can be developed around leather selection, color, stitching, embossing, edge finishing, lining and hardware. Available options depend on the chosen leather article and product construction.
Genuine leather suits projects that specifically require natural leather character, material feel and leather-goods construction. For bags and leather goods, brands are also more likely to request supplier sourcing or audit documentation, which must be confirmed for the selected article and project.
| Attribute | PU / Vegan Leather | Genuine Leather |
|---|---|---|
| Material character | An engineered coated material with a controlled grain and finish direction. | A natural collagen-fiber material with visible grain and surface variation. |
| Surface direction | Supports repeatable colors, grains, thicknesses and surface finishes across selected articles. | Natural characteristics remain visible; selection and inspection help control usable grain and thickness. |
| Customization | Article, grain, color, thickness, stitching, logo application and surface finish can be specified by project. | Leather selection, color, stitching, embossing, edge finish, lining and hardware can be specified by product. |
| Typical applications | Phone cases, bags, card holders and small accessories are represented in the current SIMPLY product range. | Leather goods such as the current genuine leather bifold wallet are represented in the SIMPLY product range. |
| Sourcing and documentation | Selected articles may be available with supplier-held certification or compliance documentation. | Selected leather may be sourced from audited or documented supplier programs when required by the project. |
Selected for grain quality, thickness and natural characteristics.
Cleans and rehydrates hides before further processing.
Removes hair and prepares the hide for splitting.
Separates the hide into controlled thickness layers.
Stabilizes the hide for strength, durability and flexibility.
Adds color and controls moisture for a consistent finish.
Refines texture, appearance and surface performance.
Checks quality before leather is prepared for production.
Check the cross-section: genuine leather shows tightly connected natural fibers and a suede-like underside.
Press the surface: genuine leather has a natural sheen, and fine wrinkles appear when pressed.
Burn test: genuine leather is difficult to ignite and gives off a burnt-protein smell.
Rub and release: quality leather is tough, flexible, and springs back well.
