Suede is a type of leather with a smooth, velvety surface, often used for fashion accessories. Full-grain leather is the most expensive and durable, while suede is less durable and susceptible to water damage. Synthetic suede is a cheaper and more durable alternative. Cleaning suede requires a dry sponge or suede brush and silicone spray for protection.
Commonly used to make boots, gloves, and other fashion accessories, suede is a type of leather with a smooth, velvety surface. The term was originally used in France to indicate a particular type of soft glove imported from Sweden. Over time, the word came to refer to any leather material with a smooth nap finish.
Leather is made from animal skins, usually cows. Once the skin has been removed from the animal, it is tanned to produce a flexible and durable material that is used for a number of applications, such as clothing manufacturing and furniture upholstery. Leather that has not been sanded or split in any way is known as full grain leather. Full grain leather is generally made from the best undamaged hides. As a result, it is the most expensive and most durable of leathers.
When manufacturers look to produce more material from a single skin, the leather may be separated into two or more layers or divisions. These include the division of the kernel, which is the outer surface of the skin, and the division of the meat, or inner surface. In very thick hides, one or more mid-splits may also occur.
In general, suede is created from either the internal split or the flesh split of a piece of leather. Because it comes from a thinner piece of leather, suede is less durable than full-grain leather. The diaper texture of the material also makes it more susceptible to water damage and stains. However, because multiple pieces of suede can be produced from a single hide, it is also much less expensive than full grain leather.
Although most suede is made from a split hide, it is also possible to produce suede from a piece of full grain leather. The diaper finish can be achieved by roughening the surface of the leather, usually with an emery wheel. Suede made from full grain leather can also be called nubuck. Full suede is generally more durable than the split leather variety, but also more expensive.
A more durable and cheaper alternative to suede can be made from synthetic materials. Unlike natural suede, the synthetic version is stain resistant and not susceptible to water damage. Because of this, faux suede is often used to upholster furniture or other items that may take a lot of wear and tear.
The best way to clean suede is to use a dry sponge or suede brush to remove dust and dirt. Suede footwear can also be protected with a silicone spray, which will prevent water damage and dirt buildup. After applying the spray, the nap can be restored with sandpaper or an emery board.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
