What Is Faux Leather Made Of?

Artificial leather, also known as synthetic leather or faux leather, is a man-made material that mimics the texture of animal leather without containing any animal components. Due to its excellent water resistance and durability, it is widely used in the handbag industry.

Common materials used in artificial leather include PU, PVC, polyester, polyurethane, and certain natural fibers derived from plants.

PU Leather

PU leather is manufactured using two methods: dry processing and wet processing. Although the processes differ, both involve coating a base fabric with polyurethane.

PVC Leather

PVC leather is produced by applying a layer of polyvinyl chloride onto a fabric backing. Compared to PU leather, PVC leather is more robust but offers less breathability.

Microfiber Polyester Leather

This material combines ultra-fine polyester fibers with polyurethane, resulting in a soft yet durable product. However, it tends to be more expensive.

Plant-Based Leather

Transforming plant waste into leather is a relatively new technology developed in recent years. This method repurposes plant waste to create environmentally friendly leather alternatives. Common plant-based materials include apple waste, mushroom mycelium, cork leather, and pineapple fibers. These materials are characterized by their natural degradability and higher production costs.