Do you have questions about skirting leather? It’s an important material choice for many fashion and furniture projects, and being informed is key to making the right decision for your project. In this article, we’ll be giving you a comprehensive overview of what skirting leather is, its various uses, different types that are available, how to properly care for and maintain your leather, and where you can buy it. So get ready to learn all you need to know about what is skirting leather and where to get it.
What is Skirting Leather?
Skirting leather is a type of leather that has been around since recorded history, used in everything from clothing to furniture. Though a traditional material, skirting leather has recently taken on a new popularity and is now a sought-after material in both fashion and decoration. But what exactly is skirting leather, what uses does it have, what types of leather make up skirting leather, and how should it be cared for when in use? The answers to these questions and more can be found in the following section.
Definition of Skirting Leather
Skirting leather is a type of leather traditionally used for bookbinding, saddles, and other tools and accessories requiring strength and durability. It is cut from the back part of the animal (known as the “butt”) where the skin is denser and thicker than from the “belly” or front part of the animal. As a result, skirting leather is known for its stiffness and strength, making it a go-to material for a wide range of applications and industries.
Skirting leather is tanned and processed differently than other types of leather. A thick canvas lining is added to the back of the leather, which increases its durability, protects the animal hide and ensures that it remains rigid. The finishing process also helps create the skirting leather’s unique grain pattern and colours. As these hides are of a larger thickness than other leathers, they must be skived or shaved down to the desired thickness, thus their name of skirting.
The toughness of skirting leather makes it ideal for use as saddles, shoes, and bags. It is also a great material for binding books and other items that frequently need to be handled and rubbed such as journals and notebooks. The leather is strong enough to stand up to wear and tear without becoming excessively supple. It is also resistant to stretching and will not crack, break or become misshapen, which is great for any item requiring longevity in its use.
Uses for Skirting Leather
Skirting leather is used in a variety of fashion and industrial applications. It’s a type of leather that’s used to create sturdy and hard-wearing products that can be used for a lifetime. Here are some of the most common uses for skirting leather:
- Saddles and harnesses for horses
- Boots, shoes, and accessories for people (such as wallets)
- Belts, bags, and luggage
- Gloves and apparel
- Leather furniture and upholstery
- Various leather goods such as wallets, key cases, and cigar cases
- Bookbinding
- Protective leather gear for motorcyclists and other athletes
Many craftspeople and leather artisans use skirting leather to make handmade items. It’s strong, durable, and has an attractive finish that holds up to heavy use. Skirting leather is also used to make smaller products, including wallets, watchstraps, and straps for camera bags.
Skirting leather is ideal for products that need to be stitched and tools that require sharp cutting and shaping. Its unique properties make it ideal for creating embossed patterns, embroidery, and etching. Skirting leather can also be dyed in various colors, printed with logos, and stamped with text or images.
Types of Skirting Leather
Skirting leather is a type of leather used for both practical and decorative purposes. It is typically thinner than other types of leather and is produced from the hides of cows, goats, sheep, pigs, and other animals. The most commonly used skirting leather comes from the hides of cows.
Skirting leather comes in several different types, including full-grain leather, top-grain leather, and split-grain leather. Here is a more detailed look at each:
- Full-grain leather: This type of skirting leather is made from the highest quality leather. It is typically the most durable and lasts a long time. As the leather ages, it can develop a natural patina that gives it a unique look.
- Top-grain leather: This type of skirting leather comes from the upper layer of the hide and is more durable than split-grain leather. It offers a degree of protection to the wearer against elements like water and dirt. It is often used to make shoes and other clothing items.
- Split-grain leather: This type of skirting leather is made from the underside of the hide. It is typically the thinnest and least durable type of skirting leather and is more affordable than full-grain or top-grain leather. It is often used to make wallets, bags, and other accessories.
No matter which type of skirting leather you use, it is important to properly care for it so that it lasts as long as possible. This includes cleaning it regularly with a damp cloth and conditioning it with a specialized leather conditioner. Additionally, it is important to store skirting leather away from moisture and sun to help prevent it from cracking or fading.
Finally, if you are looking for skirting leather for your project, you can find a wide selection of products from local leather stores, craft stores, and online retailers. Be sure to look for a quality product that will suit your needs and last a long time.
How to Care for Skirting Leather
When it comes to caring for skirting leather, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential. Skirting leather is more susceptible to abrasion and damage than other leathers, so it’s important to take preventative steps to protect the leather. Below are some tips to help you care for your skirting leather.
- Keep the leather away from direct sunlight to avoid fading or cracking.
- Apply a leather conditioner to help protect the leather from dirt, dust, and other elements.
- Avoid using strong detergents or harsh cleansers when cleaning. Instead, use only a damp cloth with mild soap.
- If there are any scratches or scuffs on the leather, use a leather repair kit to mend them.
- Stuff the leather with newspaper to help keep its shape and to prevent sagging.
- If you need to store the leather for an extended period of time, make sure it is in a cool, dry place and cover it for extra protection.
It’s also important to remember that even with proper care, skirting leather can still become damaged over time through normal wear and tear. If you notice any damage, you should address it immediately to prevent further damage from occurring. Make sure to regularly inspect your leather, and only use cleaning and conditioning products that are specifically formulated for leather use. With these tips, you’ll be able to keep your skirting leather looking great for years to come.
Where to Buy Skirting Leather
Skirting leather is available for purchase at both online and local markets. At online retailers, consumers can find a wide selection of skirting leather options and benefit from convenience, discounts and quick delivery. Websites such as Leather Hide Store, World of Leatherette, MyLeather and Leather 4U cater specifically to leather enthusiasts.
For those looking to purchase skirting leather at local markets, the best places to look are specialty leather stores or artisans who specialize in leatherwork and leather crafting. Many leather stores offer classes and workshops dedicated to leatherworking, making them an excellent choice for those just starting out. Local stores are also able to offer more personalized customer service and have a better understanding of the specific needs of their customers.
Some large-scale retailers may also offer skirting leather, although the selection will typically be more limited. Stores such as Leathers and Fabrics, Discount Leather Goods and Hide House often offer skirting leather at good prices.
When purchasing skirting leather, it’s important to make sure that the materials are of high quality and that the colors and finishes are consistent. Taking the time to research the type and quality of the material will go a long way towards ensuring that the purchase is worth the investment.