Types of Leather
It is amazing the different types of leather or imitation leather that are used to upholster sofas. Here is a quick run down on the various different types of leather and what their main qualities are. This page goes from full grain leather which is the highest quality leather to faux or match leather which is a man made synthetic material.

Full Grain Leather
Full grain leather is made from premium raw material, top skin that has not been altered to cover its natural characteristics. Also called Aniline or Semi-aniline when it has been dyed this leather is full of natural characteristics and is a popular choice for quality upholstery. Carrying a distinctive smell, the soft yet strong texture is hard wearing and ages well, and will develop a more attractive patina with use making it an ideal choice for your sofas.
Full grain leather is often available with an aniline or semi-aniline finish. The aniline finish is created when the leather is submerged in a transparent dye, this colours the leather all the way through without loosing the natural grain. The semi-aniline finish is similar to the aniline except for a thin layer of protective coating. A very popular choice for high end quality sofas, because of its attractive and durable finish.
 

Pros
Real leather
Soft, supple texture
Often treated to help prevent stains
Leather smell
Hard Wearing
Becomes more attractive over time
Contains natural characteristics
It adapts to room & body temperatures within a short time

Cons
Not available everywhere, only found at specialist retailers

Split Leather
This refers to a piece of leather that has been split from the skin of the hide. Depending on the thickness of the hide it can often be split down further. This type of leather can be more fragile than full grain leather, it has an artificial layer applied to the surface to make is suitable for upholstery. Split leathers are often used on the non wearing parts of a sofa (i.e. sides and backs) this is reflected in the quality and price of the sofa and is sold as 100% Leather in the UK.
 

Pros
Real leather
Cheaper than full grain leather
Cons
Thinner than full grain leather
Surface more fragile than full grain leather
Can be damaged by liquid if not treated
Not as soft and supple like full grain leather
Can be cold to the touch

Regenerated Leather
Unlike real untreated leather, regenerated leather has a completely smooth texture. This finish is produced when the leather goes through a manufacturing process that compresses the fibres. A popular choice for contract markets, particularly commercial seating for bars and restaurants.
 

Pros
Hard wearing
Strong
Smooth matt finish
Cheaper than genuine leather
Cons
Not classed as real leather
Smooth matt finish
If used on seating areas can be cold to the touch

Bicast Leather (also known as coated leather)
This leather uses a low grade or regenerated leather, which then has a thick layer of polyurethane applied to it. This coating makes the material strong and highly durable, perfect for constant use, particularly for commercial bar stools, chairs and other products that may be upholstered.
 

Pros
Has a thin layer of leather
Protected against liquid spills
Strong
Hard wearing
Cheaper than genuine leather
Cons
Leather has a smooth plastic finish due to coating
Not classed as real leather
If used on seating areas can be cold to the touch

Faux Leather & Match Leathers
It can be hard to tell the difference between real leather and a man-made faux leather (faux is french for false) as they have similar textures and qualities. However, because it is made from synthetic materials, faux or match leather is more durable making it ideally suited for bar stools and dining chairs etc, used in the commercial market.
 

Pros
Hard wearing
Not damaged by liquid
Generally the cheapest type of leather
Cons
Not leather :- often made from PU (polyurethane) 
If used on seating areas can be cold to the touch

Check out Wikipedia for more info on types of leather

How do I care for my new leather sofa ?

It is important to condition and protect any leather product and in particular upholstery. We supply, on all orders over £500, a complimentary Care Kit so that you can look after your new sofa from the very start.

In addition, we have created a 'Four Seasons Leather Care Plan'. The plan recommends cleaning and protecting your upholstery at the start of each of the four seasons. This will prolong the life of your product and reduce the chances of fading, splitting and general wear and tear.

The Cleaning and Protecting process should be adopted from the day you take delivery of your new leather sofa. The process allows the following benefits :

Clean : if a leather sofa gets dirty, the dirt particles can hold the grain open and create cracks and creases. These can result in the sofa looking old and worn.

Condition : leather is a natural material and, just like our own skin, benefits from being moisturised regularly. Without conditioning it can become dry and crack.

Protection : using protective cream helps it last longer, repel stains, dirt and sunlight. All of which can damage your sofa.

We recommend using the sofaitalia.co.uk leather care kit. Every order over £500 receives a complimentary kit and additional kits can be purchased from us online.

We pride ourselves in using only the finest quality leather in our sofas. To enhance our beautiful sofas and to extend their life we recommend that you follow our Four Seasons Leather Care Plan.