How to Distinguish Real Leather from Faux Leather (5 Ways to Identify Real Leather)

Leather products have held an indispensable place for centuries due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. However, with advancing technology, the production of artificial (imitation) leather has progressed to such an extent that distinguishing it from real leather with the naked eye has become quite difficult. At New Loco Craft, we use only the highest quality Genuine Leather in our products to create long-lasting designs with character.

So, how can you tell if a product you own is truly made of natural leather or a plastic-derived material? Here are 5 golden rules from an expert's perspective to distinguish real leather.

1. Examine its Texture and Surface

Genuine leather has a natural structure, much like human skin. Artificial leather, on the other hand, being produced in factories, usually has a flawless and repetitive pattern.

• Genuine Leather: May have irregular pores, capillary marks, or slight color variations on its surface. These "imperfections" are proof that the leather is natural and unique.

• Artificial Leather: Patterns are very symmetrical, and the texture feels smooth like plastic.

2. The Smell Test: The Signature of Nature

One of the most distinctive methods is the smell. The answer to the question "how to distinguish genuine leather from artificial leather" is sometimes just in your nose.

• Genuine Leather: Has a mild, earthy, and distinctive natural scent. This smell is not unpleasant and does not fade over time.

• Artificial Leather: Emits a sharp, synthetic smell like plastic, chemicals, or medicine.

3. Water Absorption Test

Genuine leather is an organic material and contains thousands of micro-pores on its surface. Quality leathers used in products like New Loco Craft's handcrafted Leather Watch Straps possess this characteristic.

• Test: Drop a small amount of water onto the leather.

• Result: Genuine leather absorbs water within seconds, and the area darkens slightly. Artificial leather, however, holds water on its surface; the water droplet will slide off.

4. Edge Structure and Stitching Details

To understand the quality of a leather product, one must look at its edges. The cut edges reveal the material's "identity."

• Genuine Leather: The cut edges are fibrous, rough, and coarse in texture. The fibers of the leather can be seen with the naked eye.

• Artificial Leather: The edges are smooth, appearing almost like a plastic layer. Inside, there is usually a textile-based (cloth or sponge) filling.

5. Heat and Touch Test

Genuine leather has the ability to absorb and transfer ambient heat.

• Temperature: When you touch genuine leather, it quickly warms up and gives warmth to your hand. Artificial leather, on the other hand, feels cold to the touch and is difficult to warm up.

• Flexibility: When you press on the leather with your finger, genuine leather forms tiny wrinkles and returns to its original state when released. Artificial leather lacks this flexibility and reacts like a plastic surface.

Why Should You Prefer Genuine Leather?

While artificial leather products may seem economical in the short term, they tend to crack, peel, and develop a bad odor over time. However, a Leather Wallet or Apple Watch Strap from the New Loco Craft workshop gains that unique shine called "patina" with use.

Genuine leather breathes, is durable, and carries a unique story for you. To explore our handcrafted designs that prioritize quality, you can visit our New Loco Craft Collection page.