Leather Lingo

Boost your leather smarts by checking out this list of leather terminology, straight from the experts at the Leather Apparel Association (LAA).

Aniline Finish—Soft, smooth drum-dyed skins usually coated with protein, resin, lacquer or wax.

Distressed—Buffing surface to create uneven coloration and markings for a weathered look.

Glazed Finish—Surface is polished to a high luster by pressurized glass or steel rollers.

Grain—Refers to the outer surface, markings or the patterns on the leather’s surface.

Leather—A generic term used for all kinds of tanned animal hides or skins.

Metallic—Metallic color applied during the tanning process for a lustrous appearance.

Napa—Commonly refers to the surface or top grain of any soft leather hide.

Patent—Heavily finished to give a highly lustrous, baked enamel-type appearance.
Pearlized—Spray-on finish giving a pearlized effect.

Shearling—Natural lamb pelts with the leather side often suede and worn on the outside.

Split—When a thick hide is split, the term refers to the top surface that looks like suede but is not as soft.

Suede—Leathers that are finished by buffing the underside of a hide to produce a velvet-like nap.

Unbuckle—Top grain is lightly buffed to a very fine nap that appears smoother than suede.

Promo Products on The Party Scene

No matter the cause for celebration, people like to party. Here are some of the top reasons for throwing a bash, according to DigsMagazine.com. Talk to your clients about how they can connect with partygoers—and make sure your promotional products make the guest list.

1. Birthday—Whether it’s an over-the-hill bash or a soiree for the big 3-0, there’s no better time than a birthday to bring out the logoed martini glasses, beer steins and appetizer plates.
2. Holiday—Promotional products such as cheese boards and serving trays have a spot at the Thanksgiving table, and items such as cocktail napkins and wine totes help ring in the New Year.
3. New Seasons—With winter approaching, consider products such as mugs and hot cocoa mixes for fireside gatherings. Or, get ready for warmer weather festivities with barbecue tools and aprons.
4. Can’t Miss TV—Superbowl parties call for chip bowls and can coolers while party trays and swizzle sticks complete an Oscar Night party.
5. New Home—Promotional placemats, ice buckets and bar accessories help homeowners entertain in style.
6. Life Change—Engaged couples can celebrate their upcoming nuptials with champagne flutes and cake servers, while punch bowls and commemorative coasters are smart choices for baby showers.