The process of coloring leather throughout with non-toxic aniline dyes. The leather is soaked in the transparent dye, which allows all of nature's signatures to remain visible. Only 5 of every 100 hides produced are sufficiently defect-free to become anilines.

Common descriptive terms for leather that shows signs of natural aging and wear that have been created.

The application of a darker color over a lighter color to create dramatic highlights.

Term used to describe the subtle, natural variations between hides in regards to color and markings.

Hides that cannot be anilines are used to produce less expensive corrected leather, which is crated when nature's signatures are buffed away and an artificial grain is embossed or heat-stamped onto the hide.

Any leather from which only the hair has been removed while the grain retains its original state. Natural markings are left intact and present the character and appeal of unique leather.

Leather that is a top grain, aniline-dyed leather that is buffed to create a soft nap. (Not suede, which is made from the less desirable split hide). Especially vulnerable to stains, Nubucks are often lightly finished for protection.

Like fine sterling silver and antiques, develops a luster or shine over time and with use, consumers who purchase aniline leathers can look forward to their furniture developing even more character over the years.

Leather that is finished with a solid pigment coating for consistency of color and texture. Pigment may be used to cover imperfections as well as add protection, generally used to denote mid priced leather.

The burst of lighter color that occurs when aniline leather is pulled tightly around corners and turns in the upholstering process. The oils and waxes in the leather cause the color to dissipate and become lighter in the areas which are pulled tight giving extra dimension and character to the piece.

Top grain leather that is aniline dyed and receives no additional coloring but may include a protective treatment such as Scotch guard. Pure aniline is also called full aniline, naked aniline or naked leather.

A mottled two-tone antiquing effect that adds depth and character.

Also Called aniline-plus or protected aniline. Top-grain leather that is aniline dyed and coated with matching pigment and or other topical finishes to even out the color and add protection.

The bottom layers of the hides that have been split off from the top grain leather, then pigmented or sueded. Generally stiffer and less durable, splits may be used on promotional leather furniture particularly in areas of less direct use to contain costs.

The process of converting rawhides into a non-perishable state.

A transparent protective coating applied to the leather surface. May also impart luster to the surface.

During the tanning process, a hide is split into layers and the top layer is referred to as the top grain. This is the most durable part of a leather hide due to the strength of the fibers.