In the past 25 years we've been selling leather bags, wallets, belts, purses and hats, we've experienced a whole host of leather-related jargon. At first it can be pretty confusing if you don't know your nappa from your nubuck, or your vegetable tanning from your oil tanning. That's why we've put together this easy-to-use glossary of all the industry terms you're likely to encounter when shopping for quality leather goods.

Bridle Leather - vegetable-tanned leather used for making equestian equipment e.g. saddles.

Buffalo Leather - hide from domesticated water buffalo.

Burnished Leather  - where heat has been applied to the leather to achieve a darker colour and sheen.

Calfskin - fine-grained leather made from the hide of young cattle.

Crocking - similar to raw denim, this is when pigment from dyed leather rubs off onto other materials.

Leather is one of the most durable materials we wear. It's made to take a beating and that kind of durability will often cost you. But when chosen carefully and maintained properly, leather can be an investment that will pay off for a lifetime.
That being said, nothing damages leather quite like water—it saps the suppleness from the skin and dries out the natural fibers, resulting in staining, stretching and cracking if not treated. Thankfully, a few simple steps will prevent moisture from permeating and eventually ruining your leather. But we should start by getting one thing straight: waterproofing is something of a misnomer. You see, no matter what you put on your leather, it will never be fully waterproof. Water resistant is more like it. Protected, but not impervious to the elements.

CHOOSE YOUR PRIMER

Oil-based primers

Oil based primers not only protect your leather from water, but they also softens and c

At Just4Leather we only stock the highest quality goods at value-for-money prices and our customers value our expertise in selecting these items. Let us share some of the tricks of the trade in tracking down those exsquisite leather pieces.

The difference between good leather and bad leather is sort of like the difference between a luxury car and a budget one.. Brand new, they may both look shiny and attractive on the outside, but it's what's on the inside that will make all the difference in the long run. And like most things, when it comes to leather, the key is how it feels. Good leather should feel silky, smooth and substantial.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

1. Is it real?

Check to see it the leather is real by inspecting the backing of the skin. If there appears to be a woven fabric on the underside, it's not leather. It's vinyl.

2. Does it smell?

At Just4Leather we always have a good whiff

Protection for Your Gadgets- iPad, Mobile and Netbooks

Electronics are always on the top of Christmas wish lists. There's always a new phone, tablet, or notebook that's on the market. Some can be pricey while others can be purchased at bargain rates. Despite the cost, these technologically advanced gadgets deserve some form of protection - right?