It can be confusing. Let's recap:
Finished Leather: Hides need heavy sanding to correct flaws in the leather. The grain pattern is obliterated during this process, and is later embossed back into the hide. Then the hide is (these terms are interchangeable), FINISHED, or PIGMENTED, or PAINTED or PROTECTED with the color coat. Special effects may be (and usually are) put into the hide which means toning, shading, hi-low contrasting, etc. Finally a durable topcoat is sprayed on. PROS: Resistant to most stains and spills. Slow to fade in direct sunlight. Easy to Clean. Easy to Repair or touch up. Least Expensive of all furniture grade leathers. CONS: No natural patterns left in the hide, very uniform. Can be stiffer. Will always be satin to glossy. Will not have that leather smell or 'hand;.
Semi-Aniline: Is virtually the same as Finished, but is a hybrid. It requires less sanding and does have a vat-dipped initial color coat (aniline), but ultimately is processed as a Finished hide. Same characteristics as Finished, tends to be a bit softer and supple.
Aniline: Light to no sanding of the hide. Only the top 2% hides worldwide are good enough to be pure anilines. All natural markings and imperfections are left in the hide, making for a wonderful, natural piece. Vat-dipped for color, with a minimum of topcoating. PROS: The smell and buttery softness of fine leather. Rich Colors, Very soft and supple. Flat Sheen. Luxury. CONS: Expensive, Will fade in Direct Sunlight. May absorb some oil and acid based stains into the hide. More difficult to clean.
For most people, choose a finished or semi-aniline leather if on a budget and you have an active household, and want a 'wipe n' go' leather.
Choose Aniline if you want to experience the full richness of leather at its best. Nothing looks as good as aniline hides, or will give you more pleasure provided your lifestyle is such that you take care of your furniture and don't eat your meals on your upholstery.
Duane Collie
Straight answers from thirty-six years in the business.
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