Maybe you’ve heard of the term ‘bi-cast leather’ when shopping for furniture or handbags before. One thing you should know about this type of leather is that, although it is made from natural leather, it is not actually genuine leather.

When it comes to understanding different types of leather, especially for leather enthusiasts, it's important to differentiate between materials like bicast leather and other varieties. Bicast leather, often used in the production of leather furniture, is made by adding a polyurethane coating to split leather, giving it the appearance of genuine leather without the cost. While it has a sleek and polished look, it doesn't offer the same durability as top grain leather or natural leather. In fact, split leather and bonded leather are typically combined with synthetic elements, like PU leather, to create a product that mimics the aesthetic of real leather. However, these materials, including synthetic leather and faux leather, don't possess the same strength and longevity as real leather or high-quality genuine leather furniture. If you're seeking the authentic texture and long-lasting benefits of natural materials, investing in top grain leather for leather garments and furniture is always a wise choice.

Bi-cast leather is a shiny, glossy leather material that is made by combining leather backing and an embossed layer of polyurethane or vinyl. It was originally made to serve as a glossier and more cost-effective alternative to leather in the shoe industry. Since then, it has extended past shoemaking and is used to make furniture, handbags, belts, and some jackets.

How It’s Made

To make bi-cast leather, you need to split authentic leather into different layers. The leather’s top grain should be removed first. For thick leather, the layers must be split up until only a thin bottom layer remains. A layer of vinyl or polyurethane is then used to cover this layer. To complete the process and make it resemble real leather, the combination is embossed.

Appearance

Bi-cast leather that has been manufactured properly can look very similar to authentic leather. The top layer of vinyl can be imprinted to mimic how the top grain of real leather looks.

One distinct quality of bi-cast leather is its polished and glossy appearance. It is almost impossible for authentic leather to achieve the gorgeous sheen that is present in bi-cast leather.

How To Care for Bicast Leather

Caring for bicast leather requires a specific approach to ensure its longevity and maintain its smooth appearance. Since bicast leather is made with a split leather base and finished with a polyurethane coating, cleaning should be done gently to avoid damaging the protective coating. To clean bicast leather properly, use a leather cleaner specifically designed for this type of material. Start by wiping the surface with a soft cloth to remove dust, dirt, and body oils that can accumulate over time. The outer layer of bicast leather may appear durable, but deep scratches or scuffs can occur if not handled with care. While the plastic-like surface created during the manufacturing process gives it a polished look, it’s important to remember that PU leather needs regular maintenance to keep its quality. This is especially true for leather furniture, where daily use can lead to wear. By using the right leather cleaner and a soft cloth, you can preserve the integrity of the protective coating and extend the life of your bicast leather products.

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Compared to genuine leather, bi-cast leather lacks any durability which means it can crack and tear a lot quicker. The only way to repair bi-cast leather is to completely replace the entire vinyl coating.

It also shouldn’t be confused with the other synthetic type of leather called polyurethane or PU leather. This type of leather is made through a purely vegan process, which means that no natural leather hide is used to manufacture it. Instead, it uses a layer synthetic polymer blend that has shell coating applied to resemble real leather.

On the other hand, bonded leather also differs from bi-cast leather in that bonded leather is made from leather scraps connected together. It is then coated with polyurethane and embossed to mimic the look of genuine leather. This is why bonded leather is often called recycled leather.

The advantages of bi-cast leather include the following:

• Cheaper than natural leather
• Has a more unique look compared to real leather
• A lot more stylish

Of course, bi-cast leather also has its disadvantages which include:

• Becomes dull after prolonged periods of regular use
• Can crack easily
• Scratches on the surface end up deepening over time

While bicast leather is an attractive and durable option for those seeking the look of natural leathers without the high cost, it’s important to understand its composition. Unlike full grain leather, which is made from the topmost layer of animal hides, bicast leather is a combination of split leather and an added polyurethane layer, giving it the appearance of grain leather. This process makes it a more inexpensive material compared to other leathers, but it also means it doesn't carry the same durability or aging characteristics as full grain leather. For those looking for an environmentally friendly alternative, imitation leather or other synthetic options may be appealing, though they lack the authenticity of natural leathers. Ultimately, while bicast leather has a plastic-like surface due to its manufacturing process, it remains an attractive and affordable option for those who want the look of leather without the cost, making it a popular choice for various products like leather garments and furniture.

What do you think of bi-cast leather? Is it something you’re willing to try out instead of real leather? Let us know your thoughts in the comments and share this with your friends!