Leather

Description

Leather is a relatively durable material typically created from animal rawhide and skins through tanning methods. The material undergoes preparation, tanning, and crusting to put it simply, though each step may have several processes inside it. Leathers were around ancient times used for numerous products from footwear to furniture mainly due to their durability and appealing look. This material is also considered to show fine protection against conditions such as wind and abrasion. Leather is classified into several grades:

• Top-grain - several subtypes of this grade are characterized by an outer layer of the hide with more dense fibers that create a strong and durable surface.
• Split leather - is produced with the top-grain separated from the hide resulting in a softer finish or, with the addition of polyurethane or vinyl, stiffer and texturally consistent.
• Bonded leather - material manufactured from leather scraps bonded together, as the name suggests, with polyurethane or latex.

Laser Cutting with Leather

Leather is easily cut and engraved by laser cutters, leaving accurately melted edges. Engraved details on leather create an especially pleasant tactile effect. However, not all leathers are suitable for this technology. The main types used for engraving are:

• Natural leather;
• Suede;
• Napped leather;
• Nubuck;
• Synthetic leather;
• Alcantara leather.

Common uses

• Footwear;
• Wallets;
• Gifts;
• Belts;
• Jewelry and decorations;
• Clothing;
• Sports goods.

Advantages

• Durability;
• Flexibility;
• Good surface finish;
• Wear resistance.

Disadvantages

• Relatively expensive.