Printed and Embossed Leather are two very common terms in the leather world. However, they need to be distinguished, as they are not the same thing.
Generally speaking, when we talk about Printed Leather, we are talking about a macro category of leather that includes all types of leather that are characterized by having a design or texture on the surface. The type of print can go from patterns or textures that highlight the grain of the leather, but also include prints that are made by special machinery that precisely emits the colour on the surface of the leather.
In contrast, when we talk about Embossed Leather, we are talking about a subcategory of Printed Leather. In this case, this type of leather is characterized by being printed leather that has been markedly printed through pressure and heat. Usually, this technique is used to imitate the skin of reptiles or to create patterns with relief.
However, it is important to note that there are some people in the market who make a more pronounced distinction between Printed and Embossed Leather. Namely, some call Printed Leather the leather with a texture, a motif, a design, or a pattern not printed in relief on the surface; On the other hand, Embossed Leather includes all leather that has been worked on the surface in an accentuated way, to imitate the skin of an animal or to create fantasies, such as flowers or geometric patterns. You will then need to pay attention and understand what distinction your supplier makes.
How is Printed and Embossed Leather made?
There are various techniques for making both Printed Leather and Embossed Leather, but the most common are:
– Plate printing: a press is used, where a plate with the design to be printed is placed on the top;
– Roller printing: machines composed of an embossed metal roller up are used. This technique is widely used for automobile upholstery and sofas.
If you are curious to know where you can find this type of leather, the answer is simple: you can check our category of fantasy leathers, where you will find Printed and Embossed Leather.
