Leather Types: Saffiano Leather
What is Saffiano Leather?
Saffiano leather is one of the most commonly used leathers found in the fashion industry today. It is a durable leather which is easy to clean, but what is Saffiano leather, and where does it come from?
The history of Saffiano leather
Originating from Italy, this material was patented by Prada and is known as one of Prada’s masterpieces. However in today’s leather goods market, Saffiano leather can be found on many market-leading designer handbags, and they are not all as good as they should be.
It is thought that Mario Prada designed this himself, however, this has not been proven. The first Prada handbag made of Saffiano grain leather was in 1913 when Prada ventured into its first handbag range, designed by Mario’s first granddaughter. With its textured cross-patterned grain, it is a wonderful leather that was designed so well it is still in such high demand now, 104 years later.
Saffiano leather has become one of the most fashionable and iconic real leathers in today’s fashion industry, however, Saffiano is now only a name, and it is not the same quality it once was.
Genuine Saffiano leather would be made from calfskin. Now that Prada’s patent is no longer in place other tanneries make look-a-like Saffiano leathers using polyurethane-based leather. Both types of leather would be finished with a wax coating, making them very durable and water-resistant.
How is Saffiano leather made
- Once the leather has been aniline dyed all the way through, it has a pigmented (leather paint) coating applied to the surface of the leather.
- The leather is then left to cure.
- Once the pigment has cured the leather, it is then put inside an embossing machine which is heated up to around 75 degrees Celsius.
- The leather is then pressed with an embossed grain to give the diagonally cross-scratch effect.
- The leather is usually pressed for between 10-15 seconds.
- Secondary colouring processes can then take place after the embossing has been done depending on the colour of the leather being made.
- The Saffiano leather is treated with a wax coating. This gives long-lasting durability and helps to prevent the leather from cracking. That doesn’t mean that Saffiao leather is indestructible. It can still be scuffed and scratched. Sharp objects will cut into the leather, and the colour will fade throughout use.
What colours of Saffiano leather are there?
Saffiano leather can come in many different colours, some vibrant and some dark. Some options are single in colour and others two-tone – a two-tone effect is created by applying one solid colour to the full hide, then applying a second colour to an area it has been embossed. This can be very subtle and sometimes can only be seen up close.
Because of its shape and embossment, the secondary colour on the embossed peaks tends to wear quicker as this is the first point of contact and will eventually lose its two-tone effect from day-to-day usage.How to clean and care for Saffiano leather products
Although this genuine leather comes standard as water resistant, you still need to take care of it. The waxed coating will repel water but not forever.
- Do not clean this leather with anything other than a genuine leather cleaner, or just a damp cloth. Avoid using baby wipes and harsh household cleaners as these can damage the finish on the leather which can then lead to the colour coming off.
- When cleaning do not rub the leather too vigorously as this can also lead to colour transferring onto the cloth. Not only that but you can also damage the prominent grain, making areas look flatter and smoother.
- You should re-protect your bag every three to four months depending on its usage. Regular cleaning and protection will help keep your bag looking newer for longer.
- When your bag is not in use you should keep it stuffed, this will help keep its shape and stop the leather from creasing. You should also keep your bag in its dust bag.
- Handbag Clinics protection cream will help repel water and other types of staining. It also has a UV light barrier which will help slow down colour fade.
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