There are several different types of leather used in furniture production. This list is not comprehensive but it is a good start.

• Nubuck (buffed) - Process of raising fibers on the grain-side of a hide to give a nap effect by buffing.
• Naked/Full-Aniline - Leather that has been dyed with aniline, a transparent dye which permeates the entire hide. However, there is no pigment (paint) or finish put on pure aniline-dyed leather to correct or hide imperfections. Best suited for light use.
• Semi-Aniline - Leather that has been dyed with aniline, a transparent dye, which permeates the entire hide. However, there is either a clear lacquer or slightly pigmented finish applied to improve resistance to wear and light. Slightly more durable than full-aniline.
• Pigmented - Hides that are aniline-dyed, then treated with a heavy pigment (paint) and top coating. Ideal for heavy use or active families.
• Corrected, Pigmented & Embossed - Pigmented leather that has been totally buffed of any imperfections, then embossed with an artificial grain to improve the appearance.
• Split - The bottom layer of the hide, which has been separated from the top grain. Split hides are generally weaker than top grain leather and may be used in less expensive upholstered furniture applications. Split hides are not recommended for heavy use.
• Suede - Process of raising fibers of the flesh-side of the hide to give a nap effect by buffing.
• Tanning - A technical process that converts raw hides into a non-perishable material called leather.