Faux leather (also known as leatherette or synthetic leather) is an increasingly popular material for fashion, upholstery, and crafts. But how does it compare to real leather? And how can you take care of your faux leather pieces so they stay looking great? In this article let’s learn a little about Faux Leather vs Real Leather.
Table of Contents
- What Is Faux Leather?
- Faux Leather vs Real Leather
- How to Care for Faux Leather
- Is Faux Leather Right for You?
What Is Faux Leather?
Faux leather is a man-made material designed to look and feel like real leather without using animal hides. It’s made by layering a plastic coating (usually PU aka polyurethane) over a fabric backing. Our stock of faux leather comes in a wide range of colors and textures, many with a soft, supple finish that’s great for sewing, bag making, or decor projects.
In everyday use, faux leather is also referred to as:
- Leatherette
- Vegan leather
- PU leather
Faux Leather vs Real Leather
Here’s a quick comparison between the two:
| Feature | Faux Leather | Real Leather |
|---|---|---|
| Animal-free | ✔️ Yes | ❌ No |
| Texture & Look | Can be very close to real leather; comes in many finishes | Unique and varies with natural grain |
| Durability | Water-resistant, more scratch-prone, less breathable | Very durable and breathable; ages with a natural patina |
| Maintenance | Easy to clean, low maintenance | Needs conditioning and care to prevent drying or cracking |
| Cost | More affordable | Usually much more expensive |
| Environmental impact | Plastic-based, but no animal farming involved | Natural but involves animal agriculture and chemical tanning |
In summary, faux leather is a practical and budget-friendly choice for many sewing and craft projects. It’s especially useful when you need consistent texture, color variety, or animal-free materials.
How to Care for Faux Leather
Taking care of faux leather is quite simple, and the better you treat it, the longer it lasts. Here are some practical tips:
1. Clean Gently
Wipe down with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners or scrubbing too hard.
2. Avoid Heat and Sun
Prolonged exposure to heat or direct sunlight may cause fading or cracking over time.
3. Use Mild Soap
If needed, use a small amount of mild soap or dish detergent diluted with water. Wipe again with clean water and dry with a soft towel.
4. Store Properly
Roll or fold your faux leather fabric loosely. Avoid heavy creases and keep it in a cool, dry place.
5. Don’t Overstretch
While it has some give, faux leather may permanently warp if pulled too tightly when sewing or upholstering.
Is Faux Leather Right for You?
Whether you’re making bags, accessories, or home decor, faux leather is a fantastic choice when you want the look of leather without the higher cost or animal products. With so many textures and colors available in our collection, there’s something for every project style.
Browse our full range of faux leather fabrics here.
And if you ever need help choosing the right type for your project, just drop us a message, we’re always happy to help!