The Many Faces of Leather: Exploring Different Types and Their Uses
When it comes to working with leather, no two hides are exactly alike. Each type of leather has its own unique characteristics, textures, strengths, and ideal applications. Knowing the difference between them can make or break your project. Whether you’re a seasoned leatherworker or just starting your crafting journey, understanding the types of leather available will help you choose the right material for your next creation.
At Weaver Leather Supply, we’re passionate about helping makers get hands-on with the best materials available. From heirloom-quality belts to custom bags and saddles, each project deserves a leather that performs as beautifully as it looks. In this guide, we’ll break down some of the most popular leather types — including full grain, top grain, and suede — explain what sets them apart, and share how to select the right one for your projects.
Leather Comparison Videos: See and Feel the Difference
If you've ever found yourself unsure whether a hide is full grain or top grain, or puzzled about how suede is made, you're not alone. That's why we created a collection of Leather Comparison Videos on the Weaver Leather Supply YouTube channel. These visual guides allow you to see the texture, finish, and flexibility of different leathers side by side.
In these videos, our leather experts discuss how each type of leather behaves during tooling, dyeing, and construction. You’ll learn what to expect when cutting, stitching, or finishing different hides and pick up helpful tips for choosing the best leather for belts, bags, upholstery, and more. Watching how these leathers move, fold, and react in real time is one of the best ways to build confidence in your material selection.
Full Grain Leather: The Highest Quality Cut
Full grain leather is widely considered the highest quality leather you can get. It’s cut from the top layer of the hide, just beneath the hair, and retains the entire natural grain. This means all the unique markings, scars, and texture of the animal remain intact, delivering a one-of-a-kind piece with character and history.
Key Features:
- Unaltered, natural surface with visible grain, scars, and wrinkles
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Develops a rich, attractive patina over time
- Breathable and ages beautifully with use
Because it hasn’t been sanded or buffed, full grain leather is also the strongest part of the hide. It’s more resistant to wear and tear, making it perfect for projects that require toughness and longevity.
Best Uses:
- Heavy-duty belts
- Saddle and tack work
- High end wallets, bags, and cases
- Durable footwear
- Work aprons and gear
Full grain leather often darkens and softens with age, gaining a deep, rich patina that many makers and end users prize. If you value character, authenticity, and materials that improve over time, full grain leather is the ideal choice.
Top Grain Leather: Smooth, Versatile, and Reliable
Top grain leather is another top contender! Like full grain, it comes from the upper layer of the hide, but it’s been sanded and buffed to remove blemishes and imperfections. This process creates a smoother, more uniform surface, which is often treated with a finish to enhance durability and stain resistance.
Key Features:
- Sanded and finished for a clean, consistent appearance
- Slightly more pliable and workable than full grain
- Resists wear, moisture, and staining better than untreated hides
- Available in a variety of colors and finishes
While it may not have the same natural patina potential as full grain, top grain leather still offers excellent durability and is often easier to cut and stitch, making it a favorite for leatherworkers focused on clean, modern designs.
Best Uses:
- Upholstery projects (furniture, automotive, interiors)
- Fashion accessories like handbags, wallets, and belts
- Lightweight leather goods
- Holsters, cases, and organizers
- Leather goods where a flawless surface is desired
Top grain is a great option for projects that need a combination of style, affordability, and reliable performance.
Suede: Soft, Textured, and Stylish
Suede is made from the underside of the hide, usually by sanding or buffing the flesh side to create a soft, napped texture. The result is a leather with a velvety surface that’s flexible, lightweight, and perfect for adding a touch of luxury to projects.
Key Features:
- Velvety, textured finish
- Lightweight and extremely supple
- Can stain and wear more easily than grain-side leathers
- Requires protective treatment for long-term use
While suede offers undeniable tactile appeal, it does require more careful maintenance. It’s more sensitive to moisture and dirt, and its softness means it’s better suited to lower-abrasion projects.
Best Uses:
- Garments like jackets, skirts, and gloves
- Footwear including boots and slippers
- Soft bags, clutches, and pouches
- Accessory linings and trim
- Upholstery accents and home décor
For projects where texture and softness are key, suede delivers both style and comfort in spades.
Matching Leather to Your Project
When selecting leather for a project, consider not only its appearance but also how it needs to perform. Will it be exposed to the elements? Will it carry weight? Does it need to mold or tool well? Here are a few tips:
- For durability and longevity: Choose full grain leather
- For a flawless look with easier handling: Opt for top grain
- For soft, stylish accents: Go with suede
- For projects that require molding and tooling: Vegetable tanned hides in either full grain or top grain work beautifully
Find the Right Leather for Your Projects
Choosing the right leather isn’t just about looks. It’s also about functionality, craftsmanship, and personal style. Whether you’re crafting a rugged work belt, a delicate suede clutch, or a smooth leather journal, look for a curated selection of premium hides in every type and finish.
We invite you to explore our full leather collection both online and in-store. And don’t forget to check out our leathercrafting videos on YouTube to get an up-close look at how each type of leather moves, feels, and performs.
Embark on your projects with confidence knowing you’ve chosen the right leather for the job.
