Aniline leather is the most natural and beautiful form of leather. It
is colored all through with a transparent dye. This is done by immersing
the leather in a dye bath. It is free of heavy pigments, plastic
fillings, surface coats and imitation grains that are found in lesser
leathers. Aniline leather is very soft, luxurious and breathable. It shows the natural origins in the form of healed scars and varying surface texture. This distinguished aniline from its imitators. It has a variety of clear finishes which do not inhibit the softness or breathing of the leather. They are like oil finish, wax finish, nitrocellulose finish and urethane protective coatings.
The leather which has a base coat of finish containing pigment, but the later coats contain a contrasting pigment giving a two-tone appearance is known as semi-aniline leather. It is made to imitate aniline leather. Semi-aniline leather is more durable. The increased durability is achieved by the application of a light surface coating containing a small amount of pigment. This ensures consistent color and also imparts some stain resistance.
Characteristics of Aniline Leather
- It is very soft.
- It is extremely delicate.
- It has color variation.
- It is sensitive to sunlight.
- It requires little care.
- It is susceptible to soiling.
- All characteristics of the hide is visible giving it a unique appeal.
- Aniline leather is widely used as upholstery.
