The finest leathers are pure anilines - and the leathers we use are anilines. Only the top 5% of hides, which are relatively free from gross surface imperfections, can be made into aniline leather. These are full grain; top grain leathers that have been soaked in transparent, non-toxic aniline dye and have no subsequent pigmented finish coats applied. In other words, the colour has not been "painted" onto the surface. The aniline dye penetrates the hide with colour, allowing the natural grain to show through.

Anilines have natural markings including healed scars, neck & belly wrinkles, scratches, insect bites and brands that vary from hide to hide in the same way that human fingerprints are unique.

Aniline leathers also exhibit natural colour variations due to leathers ability to accept dyes differently in various areas of the hide. These markings and colour shadings basically distinguish genuine leather from man-made materials like vinyl and from leathers whose "character" is stamped on with heat or pressure. Appreciating differences between hides means appreciating differences on individual items of furniture as well - because no item of furniture can be produced from a single hide, making each and every piece unique.

Our Leather Furniture May Appeal To:

Warning!
Harpenden Interiors' aniline leather furniture may not appeal to consumers who want the uniform colour and surface commonly seen in less expensive leathers that are heavily corrected and pigmented.