Pigmented Leather: Your Guide to the Durable Choice

Key Takeaways

• Pigmented leather is a type of leather with protective coating that makes it durable and stain-resistant.
• It is more affordable and easier to maintain than aniline and semi-aniline leather.
• Ideal for furniture, automotive interiors, and fashion accessories due to its durability.

Leather is a highly sought after material and has several uses, thanks to its classic appeal, look, feel, and above all, durability. Someone who doesn’t know much about leather can easily get confused while choosing, as there are many different leathers available in the market. In this blog, which is a part of our series about different types of leather, you will learn about pigmented leather. 

We'll cover everything from what pigmented leather is to how to care for it, and even compare it to other types like aniline and semi-aniline leather.

What is Pigmented Leather?

Leather that's had its natural surface coated with a protective finish is called pigmented leather. This finish is not a simple coating. It contains tiny pigment particles mixed with a binder. This process gives the leather a consistent rich color, makes it resistant to stains and damage, and completely hides the natural imperfections of the leather surface.

How Pigmented Leather is Made?

Leather naturally has imperfections, which show each and every scar and mark that the animal’s skin got in its life. When making pigmented leather, the hide is buffed to the point where it gets a smooth and even surface, priming it for the pigment layer. 

Once all the grain variations and natural marks are smooth, a thick layer of spray dye (pigment) is applied. This pigment acts like a paint, creating a uniform appearance and covering any remaining blemishes. Finally, a protective topcoat is added to seal the pigment. This layer enhances the leather's durability and ensures the consistent color and finish are locked in.

How to Identify Pigmented Leather

To spot pigmented leather from aniline or semi aniline leather is to look closely for color consistency. It will typically have a very uniform appearance with minimal variation. It often feels slightly cooler and less "natural" to the touch compared to aniline or semi-aniline leather, which don’t have a thick protective layering.  

You can also do a simple scratch test. If you scratch the surface and the color doesn't change much, it's likely pigmented. With aniline or semi aniline leather finish, the color will change slightly in the area of the scratch.

Characteristics of Pigmented Leather

Pigmented leather has some impressive characteristics which make it a worthwhile choice for long lasting leather products:

Color

Pigmented leather has a uniform color because of its pigmented finish. It does not show natural variations like aniline leather.

Texture

Also known as corrected leather, it has a smooth or slightly embossed surface, depending on the finishing process.

Stain Resistance

The protective layer makes pigmented leather highly resistant to spills and stains. 

Scratch Resistance

Pigmented leather does not scratch as easily as aniline leather, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.

Water Resistance

The fully protected leather repels water due to its coating which locks the pores, preventing immediate absorption.

Breathability

Although pigmented leather is durable, it is less breathable than aniline leather or semi aniline leather. The pigment layer fills up the natural pores in leather.

Maintenance

Pigmented leather is easy to clean and requires minimal maintenance as compared to full grain aniline leather, semi aniline, or nubuck leather.

Affordability

The pigment layer takes away the natural appearance and feel of leather, and makes it impossible for the leather surface to develop a natural patina. Therefore, pigmented leather products are more affordable than full aniline leather products, but not as inexpensive as split leather or faux leather.

Difference between Aniline, Semi-Aniline, and Pigmented Leather

Let's break down the differences between aniline, semi aniline and pigmented leather.

Aniline Full Grain Leather

To define aniline leather, we can say that it is full grain leather treated with a water soluble dye that penetrates the surface of the leather. As aniline dyed leather is not coated, it shows natural characteristics of the hide, including the grain, markings, and imperfections. Aniline calfskin is more prone to stains and scratches than semi aniline or pigmented leather. However, it is soft, supple, warm to touch, and highly breathable due to the absence of coatings.

Semi-Aniline Top Grain Leather

Let’s discuss what is semi aniline leather. If you are not well versed about leather and leather types, you might wonder whether semi aniline leather is real leather. As the name implies, semi aniline leather means real leather with a light protective coating. It appears more uniform than full aniline leather but still retains some natural variations.

Semi aniline top grain leather is more resistant to stains and scratches than aniline leather. In fact, resistance to wear and tear is the main difference between full aniline vs semi aniline leather. It is less breathable than aniline leather but more than pigmented leather.

Pigmented Leather

As mentioned earlier, pigmented leather has a solid, protective coating with color pigments. Ithas an even color and texture with a slight sheen. Difference between aniline leather vs full grain pigmented leather is that pigmented leather is highly resistant to stains, scratches, and wear. However, it is the least breathable among the three types.

Uses of Pigmented Leather

Pigmented leather or protected leather is commonly used in:

• Leather Furniture: Sofas, chairs, and recliners benefit from its durability and easy maintenance.
• Automotive Interiors: Car seats and steering wheels use pigmented leather due to its resistance to wear and tear.
• Fashion Accessories: Bags, belts, and wallets are often made from pigmented leather for longevity.
• Custom Leather Jackets: Pigmented leather is ideal for custom leather jackets. Leather Skin Shop offers impeccable customization services where you can order the jacket of your choice (in pigmented leather, if you want). Our skilled design consultants and artisans ensure you will get the truly personalized jacket that you are looking for. 

Caring for Pigmented Leather

Caring for pigmented leather is simple. Regular dusting and occasional wiping with a damp cloth are usually enough to keep it spot free. For tougher stains, you can use a mild leather cleaner designed for pigmented leather. Avoid harsh chemicals at all costs, and regularly use a conditioner to maintain your pigmented leather product.

FAQs:

What Is Pigmented Leather?

Pigment leather is leather with a protective, colored coating that increases durability and stain resistance.

Does Pigmented Leather Develop Cracks Over Time?

If properly maintained, pigmented leather resists cracking. However, extreme heat and dryness can cause cracks over time.

How Does Pigmented Leather Compare To Aniline Leather?

Pigmented leather is more durable and resistant to stains, while aniline leather is softer, more breathable, and shows natural grain variations.

What Does "Top-Coated" Or "Pigmented" Leather Mean?

“Top coated” or “pigmented” means the leather has a protective color coating that shields it from stains and wear.

What Is The Best Way To Clean Pigmented Leather?

To clean pigmented leather products, use a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals and excessive moisture.

Is Top-Coated Leather Considered Real Leather?

Yes, top-coated leather is real leather that has been treated with a finishing layer for durability and appearance.

How Can You Restore The Look Of Pigmented Leather?

If your pigmented leather products wear out, use a leather cleaner, followed by a conditioner to restore its look. You can also take it to a leather care professional to see if a pigment layer needs to be reapplied on it. 

Is Pigmented Leather A Good Choice?

Yes, pigmented leather is an excellent choice for furniture, car interiors, and fashion accessories due to its durability and easy maintenance.

What Materials Are Used To Make Pigmented Leather?

Pigmented leather is made from natural hides coated with pigments and a protective binder.

Conclusion

Pigmented leather is a fantastic choice for those who need a durable, easy-to-care-for leather. While it may not have the same natural character as aniline leather, its practicality and resilience make it a popular option for furniture, car interiors, and more.