Five Leather Grades

 

There are thousands of leather types produced in the world. However, when grading leather there are five leather categories which include full grain, top grain, split grain, genuine, and bonded leathers. MONOLISA products are only designed with full grain, top grain and split grain leathers. We don't use low quality leathers, genuine or bonded leathers. 

Full Grain Leather

Full grain leather has a complete grain of the hide intact. It is the most durable and tear resistant leather. Vegetable tanned and distressed leathers are common types that fall under the full grain leather category. We use full grain leathers when designing some MONOLISA bags. 

Top Grain Leather

Top grain leather has a split layer with removal of imperfections, resulting in thinner and smoother leathers. Top grain leathers resist stains easier. This leather type is commonly used to produce premium leather bags and accessories. MONOLISA widely uses top grain leathers designing leather crossbody bags and totes.

Split Grain Leather

Split grain leather doesn't contain any of the hide's grain such as suede. Split grain leathers are used for making products and lining such as bags, belts, and small leather accessories. This type of leather is thinner and porous. MONOLISA uses thick premium European water resistant suede, making our suede pieces very durable, unique and long lasting.

Genuine Leather

Genuine leather is the lowest quality leather. The name is deceiving and was developed strictly for marketing purposes. This type of leather is made from the bottom cut. Technically it is leather, although it doesn't have any of the grain and is heavily processed. MONOLISA doesn't use genuine leathers. 

Bonded Leather

Bonded leather is a man-made material. It is very low quality. This leather is made by taking the scraps of leather and bonding them together. The bonding process includes polymers and fillers mimicking a leather material. Bonded leather is used to produce inexpensive accessories or home goods such as furniture. MONOLISA doesn't use bonded leathers on their products.