The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Leather for Your Project
Every leathercraft project needs to have the right leather selection as its foundation. Different leather types offer distinct characteristics affecting durability, appearance, and workability. The study of cowhide together with kangaroo and suede leathers (which includes grain structure and thickness and flexibility) enables you to create products that fulfill both design and operational needs. This guide helps you choose the ideal leather for bags, belts, saddles, or upholstery.
Understanding Leather Types
Cowhide Leather
The most adaptable and cost-effective leather material exists in cowhide which people at all skill levels choose to work with. It shows a noticeable grain pattern which develops its unique character through time particularly in veg-tanned types. The thickness of cowhide skin ranges between 1.2mm to 3.5mm with the thicker versions delivering better resistance for demanding industrial uses. The material gets more flexible through wear which makes cowhide suitable for making wallets and bags and belts.
Best for: Bags, belts, wallets, footwear, general leathercraft
Thickness: 1.2mm–3.5mm
Durability: High—improves with age
Kangaroo Leather
Kangaroo leather provides an outstanding weight-to-strength ratio which makes it suitable for applications that need both lightness and strong durability. The Australian leather displays a compact grain structure that feels soft to the touch but needs little care. Kangaroo leather resists tearing despite its thin profile (0.8mm–1.2mm), making it ideal for saddles and laces. The ethical sourcing process of this material together with its distinctive features makes it popular among environmentally aware artisans.
Best for: Saddles, kangaroo laces, lightweight bags, detailed work
Thickness: 0.8mm–1.2mm
Durability: Exceptional—naturally strong
Suede Leather
Suede provides a soft luxury feel with its velvet-like texture which makes it perfect for upholstery and decorative applications. The material exhibits more fragility than full-grain leather while needing special care to avoid water damage and discoloration. Suede serves as an excellent option for cushions and clothing and accessories which require a soft touch rather than strong resistance to wear.’
Best for: Upholstery, cushions, clothing, decorative items
Durability: Moderate—requires protective care
Surface: Soft, velvet-like finish
Choosing Leather by Project Type
Bags & Wallets: Cowhide offers durability and patina development. Kangaroo leather provides exceptional strength while being light in weight.
Saddles & Equestrian Items: The natural strength and flexibility of kangaroo leather makes it perfect for saddles and equestrian equipment.
Belts & Straps: The use of thick cowhide between 2 to 3mm in thickness results in belts which maintain their shape and last longer.
Upholstery & Cushions: Suede delivers luxury comfort; cowhide offers practical durability.
Detailed Tooling: Veg-tanned cowhide responds beautifully to carving and stamping.
Key Factors to Consider
Grain: Visible grain adds character; fine grain suits detailed work.
The 2.5mm and above leather thickness results in sturdy products while the 0.8mm leather thickness allows for intricate design work. The aging process of veg-tanned leather results in a beautiful appearance while chrome-tanned leather maintains its color stability. The design of draped items works best with softer leather but stiffer leather produces rigid shapes. The decision between using leather or fabric depends on the required durability level and desired appearance and maintenance needs of the end product.
Shop Premium Leather at A Mac Lace Leather
The quality of leather you choose will dictate the final outcome of your leathercraft projects. A Mac Lace Leather offers premium cowhide and kangaroo and suede leather products to customers across Australia and worldwide.
Phone: 0466 903 416
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://maclaceleather.com.au/
Start your next leathercraft project today by exploring our leather collection.