Leather Vs. Bicast

Top-Grain and Full-Grain Leather

• Top-grain leather is hide that has had its outermost layers preserved. These layers contain the grain of the leather, the marks and imperfections that give the hide its character. The purest form of top-grain leather, called full-grain leather, has had no modification beyond the removal of hair from the hide, and the hide has not been split into multiple layers. Top-grain leather is the most durable kind of natural leather. Lower grades of leather are less sturdy and may have had some artificial enhancement of their grain.

Split Leather

• Leather is typically split into several layers when it is processed, with the outer layers becoming top-grain leather and the lower layers being referred to as split leather. Split leather has no grain, and it is generally modified to improve its appearance. Split leather that has been brushed until it has a soft surface is called suede, and other split leathers are embossed with an artificial grain pattern and covered with a synthetic coating. Split leather is weaker and less durable than top-grain or full-grain leather.

Bicast Leather

• Bicast leather is split leather that has been bonded to a layer of synthetic material. The split leather forms the base of the material, and the synthetic surface is stamped with a grain pattern and coated with a heavy layer of polyurethane. Bicast has a smooth, shiny surface that is easily cleaned, and it is used often as an upholstery fabric on inexpensive furniture. Although often called bicast leather, the material is substantially man-made, and in countries such as New Zealand and the United Kingdom, manufacturers may not refer to it as leather.

Finished Leather

• Natural leathers are often finished with a variety of processes to alter their appearance or improve their functionality. Leather may be dyed or stamped, and its surface may be buffed or brushed to create a soft nap. The grain may be ironed or polished, and wax or waterproofing may be applied to protect the surface. These processes significantly change the look of the leather, but unlike bicast, the underlying material is natural hide.