How to Test for Genuine Leather: Simple Ways to Identify Real Leather
Testing whether your leather labels are genuine is essential, especially if you prioritize quality and durability in your products. Here are some simple ways to check if your leather labels are made from real, high-grade leather.
- The Touch and Flex Test
Real leather feels soft, warm, and slightly textured. When you bend it, natural creases appear, rather than staying perfectly smooth. Artificial leather usually feels cold or overly uniform and doesn’t crease naturally. - The Smell Test
Genuine leather has a distinct, rich, earthy smell, which is hard to imitate. Synthetic materials often smell of chemicals or plastic. This is a quick and reliable way to identify authentic leather labels. - The Pore and Grain Check
Examine the surface closely. Real leather shows natural, uneven pores and slight imperfections, whereas fake leather appears too perfect, with repeated grain patterns. - Water Absorption Test
Place a small drop of water on the leather label. While genuine leather will still absorb a little moisture and darken slightly, this test is not always obvious for factory-finished leather. Labelling factories often use leather with a smooth surface finish to allow for clear printing or hot stamping, which can reduce visible water absorption. However, with real leather, you may still notice a subtle darkening as the water is absorbed, whereas fake leather will let the droplet sit on the surface without soaking in. - Burn Test (With Caution)
If safe and practical, lightly burn a small edge. Authentic leather will smell like burnt hair and not melt. Imitation leather melts and gives off a chemical odour.
When the same design is hot stamped onto genuine leather labels, it may appear slightly different from one piece to another, and even between production batches. This is because leather is a natural, organic material, and its texture varies from hide to hide. These unique characteristics mean each label has its own subtle variations, adding to the authenticity and charm of real leather.
At Genius Leather Labelling Factory, we supply premium, custom leather labels using only genuine leather. Choosing authentic leather adds long-lasting quality, style, and value to garments and accessories. Ensure your brand reflects true craftsmanship with real leather labels.
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