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Dyeing
The application of color either by spraying, hand rubbing or immersion. Embossing
a process in which design is added to leather by pressure to alter or
correct the surface, resulting in uniform imitation grain. Splits
underlying layers of leather, usually used for suedes.
Tanning
Treating raw hides to reduce their perishability.
Finishing
Any post tanning treatment, such as dyeing, rolling, pressing, spraying,
lacquering, antiquing, waxing, buffing or glazing.
Full Grain
A term which indicates that leather possesses its original, natural grain;
leather which has not been altered.
Top Grain
The top surface of the hide.
Grain
The distinctive pore and wrinkle pattern of a hide; may be either natural
or embossed. Graining, like human fingerprints, is unique to each individual
hide, and is the hallmark of quality full-grain leather hides.
Scars
These form usually as a result of barbed wire damage the horns of other
cattle and other variations in grain pattern that occur during the life
of the animal.
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks appear in cowhide for the same reasons they do in humans.
The process of calving requires the stretching of the skin to accommodate
the new calf. Nothing could be more natural.
Semi-Aniline
Sometimes called "Aniline Plus", these leathers are first drum
dyed in penetrating aniline dyes. Then a thin matching topcoat is applied
to even out the color of the hide surface. The topcoat also serves to
protect against fading and stains. Semi-Aniline leathers are available
in hundreds of colors. They retain most of the softness of their aniline
dyed cousins because the natural top grain is left intact. A much larger
proportion of the world hide supply is suitable for this class of leathers
and as a result are more moderately priced.
Shade Variations
No two hides are alike and due to the varying grain structure mentioned
below, the dyes and finishes penetrate to differing degrees in different
parts of the hide to give an attractive variation. While every attempt
is made to achieve uniformity this is not always possible.
Aniline Dyed (an-a-line)
Lovers of truly natural products are particularly fond of these leathers:
their buttery, glove-soft texture add an extra dimension of comfort to
your sofa or chair. To create this luxurious softness and their rich
gem like colors, aniline dyed leathers are tumbled for up to 12 hours
in drums containing transparent dyes. These dyes enhance the subtle textural
and color variations of each hide. Through the years, aniline dyed leather
develops a distinctive patina which add to its value as a focal point
in your home.
Corrected Grain Leathers
Many hides are marred by naturally occurring imperfections. Insect bites,
barbed wire scars, scrapes and other defects make them unsuitable for
your home. To remove these imperfections, corrected grain leathers are
first sanded or buffed, then embossed to restore a natural-looking grain
pattern. Finally, a dense protective coat is applied. Some natural softness
is sacrificed in this process, but this makes for the most economical
grade of top grain leather.
Leather Care
Leather is a natural product, therefore it needs reasonable care during
normal usage. Do not expose the leather to sunlight. We do recommend
frequent dusting to eliminate clogging of pores.
For spills and stains, blot with a clean dry absorbent cloth or sponge.
For matte leathers if necessary, wipe with a clean cloth and damp lukewarm
water. Do not dry wet areas with hair dryers, etc.
For natural or non-protected leathers, blot liquid with a clean absorbent
cloth. If a stain appears it will dissipate in time. Do not apply water
to clean butter, oil or grease spots.
Do Not Use: Furniture polish, varnish, ammonia, saddle soaps, oils, abrasive
cleaner soaps, etc... The leather has been permanently preserved in the
tanning process and needs no maintenance other than the simple cleaning
recommended. The use of leather care kits will void any warranty claim.
Consumers: If you want the names of dealers nearest to you, please either
email us at info@omnialeather.com or call us at (909) 393-4400 between
8am and 5pm PST.
Retailers: if you are interested in becoming an OMNIA Dealer, either
email us at sales@omnialeather.com or call us at (909) 393-4400 between
8am and 5pm PST.
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©OMNIA LEATHER FURNITURE 2004