Buying leather or fabric can be confusing because there are many grades to consider and some variations within each grade. All of our custom seating comes in several grades of top grain leather or a synthetic suede-like "Microfiber".

Grade 1 leathers are available in 100% leather, or a more affordable leather with leather match version. (Leather match means the back and underside of the chair is upholstered in a durable vinyl that is custom matched to be undetectable from the leather.)

Glossary of Terms

When buying fine leather furniture, it should always be TOP GRAIN. There are three types of top grain leather

Boucle - Fabric has a looped, knotted surface.

Denier - The weight per unit length of a single strand of yarn.

Cleaning Code W - Clean soils and dusty areas by vacuuming and lightly brushing on a regular basis. Liquids should be absorbed quickly with paper towels or a cotton cloth. Test an inconspicuous area first before cleaning stains. Use the foam from a mild water-free solvent. Dry cleaning agents such as non-solvent upholstery shampoos, or a mild detergent can also be used. When using a shampoo, apply with a brush, and clean gently in a circular motion. For large soiled areas, a professional cleaning service is recommended.

Cleaning Code WS - Clean soils and dusty areas by vacuuming and lightly brushing on a regular basis. Liquids should be absorbed quickly with paper towels or a cotton cloth. Test an inconspicuous area first before cleaning. For specific stains, a mild solvent, upholstery shampoo, or the foam from a mild detergent can be used.

Embossing - Fabrics are engraved with the use of heated rollers under pressure to produce a raised pattern.

Jaquard - An attachment on the loom permits the individual control of the yarns, and creates complex fabrics of almost any type.

Microfiber - The measurement of a fiber with a denier of 1 or less.

Natural Grain - Natural Grain is uncorrected leather that is made from only the finest hides. A natural grain is the softest, most natural looking leather with the unique surface characteristics of the hide remaining visible. Of course the natural grain is always the most expensive, but if you want the very best, Palliser’s natural Grain Leathers are as good as it gets.

Semi Corrected Grain - Means that the leather has been lightly buffed to remove any natural blemishes in the leather. Palliser’s Classic is semi aniline leather meaning a light surface coating containing a small amount of pigment has been applied. This surface coating makes the leather more resistant to stains and abuse, while still retaining the natural appearance and softness of full grain leather.

Corrected Grain - Corrected Grain is the most commonly used leather. Its surface is polished smooth to remove imperfections before the surface coating is applied. A new grain pattern is then embossed into the surface. Corrected Grain leather is considered the most durable.If you need “kid proof” leather, Palliser’s Mondo provides a great combination of durability and value.

When buying fine furniture leather it should always be TOP GRAIN. However, there are three types of top grain leather.