Advancements in Faux Leather

There are numerous types of imitation leather fabrics. Some common types are:

• Polyurethane (PU): PU faux leather is created by applying or laminating a polyurethane finish onto a base material. Renowned for its supple and pliable texture, it closely mirrors the appearance and feel of genuine leather.
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): PVC faux leather is produced by treating a fabric base with polyvinyl chloride, resulting in a robust material resistant to wear and tear. Noted for its glossy finish, it’s commonly used for furniture upholstery and in automotive interiors.

These constructions represent just a fraction of available options. The diverse range of imitation leather fabrics in the market offer various textures, finishes, and properties to cater to multiple aesthetics and applications.

The faux leather manufacturing process commences with a fabric base, typically composed of polyester or cotton. To achieve the leather-like appearance, a specialised coating, consisting of polymers such as polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), are applied to the fabric. These polymers imbue the fabric with durability, texture, and water-resistant qualities. Subsequently, a print or embossing technique is employed to enhance the leather-like characteristics, creating patterns that simulate a natural grain. The end result is a fabric that closely resembles genuine leather in look and feel, yet remains more economical, cruelty-free, and simpler to clean and maintain.

In contrast to genuine leather, synthetic leather exhibits greater resistance to fading and cracking over time. They are extensively utilised in diverse upholstery projects, catering to high-traffic interiors in both residential and commercial settings. Their strength in the commercial sector has demanded more features and benefits to be included in the composition. Our imitation leather, Ranch, covers these bases as the design has been constructed with inherent FibreGuard properties. 

Ranch is our introduction to vinyl composed with high-performance technology, and additionally features a luxurious hand feel and detailed texture closely resembling genuine leather. The inherent stain and water repellent properties ensures the fabric can be easily cleaned with soap and water or washed up to 60 degrees, removing the use of chemicals that ultimately degrade and discolour the textile. Ranch is ideal for high use commercial interiors not only due to its durability and ease of maintenance, but it’s range of trend focused and classic colourways. This vinyl plus FibreGuard first, also supports our much-admired Tanning by Zepel and UV Pro range, specifically Vinout and Vinout Metallic.  

Tanning from the extensive Leather Craft Collection features an indistinguishable leather texture with an ultra-soft handle, creating a natural and luxury finish with high comfort. The Vinout collection offers sophisticated and refined designs that are suitable for indoor and outdoor use, creating styling options across multiple areas. These fabrics are well-known for their natural ability to retain their colourfastness even when exposed to UV rays from the sun and various types of weather conditions. Tanning and Vinout are versatile when it comes to maintenance, as they can be effectively cleaned using a variety of methods such as soapy water or other cleaning solutions approved for use on the care label. They are additionally designed to be mildew, stain, and water resistant. 

At Zepel, our commercial team specialises in providing fit for purpose upholstery, drapery, and wallcovering solutions for the commercial industry.