Leather items are lovable, thanks to the durability and flexibility of this material. However, you would find varying leather types with different properties. If, as an artisan, you need leather that appears strong yet supple and smooth, then you should consider Nappa leather. So, you need to know what is Nappa leather?
Nappa leather is a premium material sourced from full-grain leather and undergoes a unique tanning process that helps retain its special features. Such a top-quality leather material can come in handy for making several luxury leather items, including fashionable clothing and high-end car seats.
While this leather quality is striking, there is some confusion, and very few persons can adequately identify genuine Nappa leather. Not to worry, this article would clear likely misconceptions and provide intriguing details about this leather type.
What Is Nappa Leather?
Nappa leather is a household name for leather materials that are strong and supple. So, such a leather type would differ in color and thickness and even be sourced from different animal kinds.
But genuine Nappa leather is full-grain leather; hence, its surface doesn’t get sanded or buffed during its tanning process. The only modification this kind of leather undergoes is “hair removal,” which helps it retain its natural markings and texture.
Hence, this makes Nappa leather different from suede and nubuck, as well as other natural leather types that have their grains removed. The grain on this leather has closely packed fibers, giving off a smooth and more delicate feel.
Despite being soft, Nappa leather is strong and can withstand rugged use. Leatherworkers make this material more desirable by dyeing them in different colors and making them abrasion and moisture-resistant.
Where does Nappa leather come from? Nappa leather comes from animal skins of young goats, sheep, and even lamb. Thus, you would find Nappa leather emerging costly compared to other options in the market.
Furthermore, you should know that the term “Nappa” emerged in 1875, conceived by Emanuel Manasse, a worker of the Sawyer Tanning Company in Napa (California).
What is Nappa leather made of?
Nappa leather is made from full-grain animal hide, mostly from young sheep, lamb, goat, and cow. The work on this leather piece is little compared to some other genuine leather. Apart from the hair removal on the animal hide, Nappa leather does not undergo such modifications as sanding or buffing.
Hence, Nappa retains its natural texture, and such imperfections enhance this leather’s beauty, giving it a supple and soft feel. Leather experts further reveal that Nappa leather undergoes aluminum or chromium sulfate tanning, which makes it very flexible.
Types of Nappa Leather
There are several types of Nappa leather, categorized based on the source animals and the dye finishing that gives off their peculiar colors on finished goods. So, based on the animal hides, Nappa leather is grouped into:
- Calfskin Nappa Leather: Calfskin Nappa leather is often used for making high-end leather products, especially boots.
- Bovine Nappa Leather: Unlike other Nappa leather types sourced from prime animals, bovine Nappa often comes from large and grown animal hides. With their top quality, they come in handy for making car upholstery, leather sofas, and other furniture.
- Crossed Sheep and Goats Nappa Leather: This type of Nappa leather are primarily used for crafting footwear, bags, wallet, and a few leather products.
- Sheep Napp