What is suede fabric?
Suede is a kind of leather.

It can be sourced from any sort of animal that’s used to make normal leather.

The key difference between suede and other forms of leather is that suede fabric comes from the underside of animal skin.

However, most other kinds of leather come from the top side of animal skin.

The underside of animal skin is considerably softer to the touch than the outside. However, it is also less resistant to stains and the elements.

This means that suede is normally regarded as a luxury material. It may not have the durability of normal leather, but it is softer to the touch and more comfortable when you wear it against the skin.

suede leather bag

Suede is much more permeable than conventional leather.

It does not have the waterproofing advantages of leather. This means it is better to wear suede garments indoors or when it’s unlikely that they will come into contact with challenging environmental conditions.

Although most other types of leather come from cow skin, suede is normally manufactured from lamb skin. Other kinds of animal skin including goat, deer and calf can be used to produce suede.

Many textile manufacturers have tried to create synthetic suede products. Some of these have been more impressive than others.

The idea is to cut down the impact on animals that produce leather and offset some of suede’s more negative attributes.

It may not be possible to fully replicate suede’s more desirable attributes, but synthetic alternatives to suede can be less expensive and longer lasting than the genuine product.

What is the quality level of suede?
Suede is a high-quality product overall. However, this is not really for the same reasons as other kinds of leather. It is more vulnerable to damage due to the way it is thinner and softer than these forms of leather.

However, many people find the softness and pliability offered by suede to be highly appealing.

The quality of suede is determined by factors like the animal the hide is derived from and its age. Sheep are the most common source of suede. However, mature cows produce a suede that’s generally regarded as less desirable.

Other things that can affect the quality of suede include the tanning process and whether the leather is split.

If leather is left intact as full-grain leather, this can be tougher and more durable, with the suede surface left on one side. However, this affects pliability. Suede is considered to be of much higher quality when it is split and supple.

suede briefcase

What exactly does suede look like?
Suede has a luxurious feel and decorative look. The suede “side” of the material resembles densely packed short hairs. If suede has been brushed properly, it will have a consistent color and grain. If it is ruffled, it can look less dense and darker.

It’s also possible to dye suede. Whilst the natural color of suede is “tanned”, like most leathers, quality suede is available in various hues.

What are the advantages of suede leather?
Suede has many advantages over other forms of leather. Its look and feel have made it a highly desirable material. It is also durable thanks to the way it’s a product of hide. The nap also makes it rather unique.

What are the disadvantages of suede leather?
One of the drawbacks of suede leather is that it isn’t as durable as other forms of leather. It’s also not uncommon for the nap to trap dirt, oil and moisture.

This means suede is more prone to staining and damage. You can prevent this by taking proper care of the material.

Although suede can vary in quality terms, you can generally tell how good suede is by the way it feels.

What steps can I take to care for suede?
Most people know that they shouldn’t add water to suede. Other steps you can take to protect suede include using a sealant.

A suede brush or a dry, clean toothbrush can be used to maintain the freshness of the nap.

You can also treat wet stains with talcum powder. If a stain has already appeared, you may be able to treat it with a small amount of white vinegar. A professional cleaner can also help if you do need outside assistance.