What exactly is Patent Leather? It is distinguished by its very clear, bright, and polished appearance.

1. Glass-like finish
2. Since 1818
3. Nowadays, go vegan

The surface is often water resistant or water proof, which contributes to longevity by preserving the leather below.

——- What Is Patent Leather? ——-

1. Coated Leather

It is a sort of high-gloss-finish coated leather. It is also known as “enameled leather” at times. The method used a linseed oil-based lacquer covering. Modern patent leather is frequently coated with plastic.

2. Features

Like ordinary leather, it comes in all colors and has a glass-like sheen that catches the light. In addition to its mirror-like gloss, it is nearly waterproof and has an extremely flexible structure.

It is a good fit for shoes, handbags, and belts that are more formal and dressy because of how shiny it is. The shiny surface is susceptible to scratches and needs to be regularly maintained.

3. Popularity

When it comes to water-resistant leather with a high gloss, it is frequently the first thing that comes to mind. It offers a sophisticated touch to a broad range of leather items. Patent leather’s aesthetic qualities have made it a popular material for formal accessories.

——- History ——-

1. Started in Late 1700s

It was created in the late 1700s by applying layers of oils to coloured leather and drying it. The resultant surface was long-lasting and water-resistant. Since then, oils have been replaced with synthetic ingredients, and this glossy leather is often used in shoes, wallets, purses, and accessories.

2. Popularity Since 1818

In 1818, Boyden got a piece of German-made patent leather from a local carriage maker, claiming it to be a German military cap front, and used it to examine the feasibility of making a duplicate of leather in the US. 

On September 20, 1819, the first commercial production started. Boyden figured out how to make his own patent leather by studying the European version. On September 20, 1819, the first shiny leather made with a coating made from linseed oil went on sale. Boyden’s work culminated in the creation of glossy leather, which immediately became popular as a compliment to formal attire.

3. Spread to Fashion in 1960s

Shoes, boots, and purses were often constructed of patent leather or vinyl in British fashion trends of the 1960s.  patent shoes were offered.

——- What is Patent Leather Made of ? ——-

1. Leather at Beginning

Initially, this leather was manufactured from natural leather that had been treated in different oils. All leather is made from the skins or hides of animals. The majority of hides are a byproduct of the meat industry. The majority of the leather business is made up of skins from animals killed for meat.

2. Manmade Today

It has become considerably more prevalent in recent years to be manufactured of imitation leather with synthetic finishes. It became fashionable in the 1960s because to the decreased manufacturing costs of imitation synthetic materials.

3. Synthetic Version Still Popular

It can now be created in almost any color and is used in a wide range of leather items, including boots, handbags, purses, jeans, skirts, costumes, belts, watch bands, caps, etc.

——- Why It Is Called Patent Leather ? ——-

There are several variations. The most intriguing is tied to its past in some way. Boyden contributed to the improvement of the production process, allowing patent leather to become extensively utilized in society. He never sought for a patent for the novel manufacturing procedure.

——- Is Patent Leather Durable ? ——-

If properly cared for, it may last for many years, depending on the quality of your goods. Genuine leather is nearly always more durable than patent leather. When properly cared for, it may last a lifetime.

——- Is Patent Leather Vegan ? ——-

You might have already gotten your answer by reading through above.
Hundreds years ago, it is not vegan.

Today, yes. The majority of patent leather available in the market is vegan —- 100% manmade and synthetic.

[About Us] EcoLeathery
EcoLeathery is a manufacturer of vegan/Eco leather based in Hangzhou, China. We have extensive experience punch perforating and precision micro-perforating leather fabrics.

[Author] Billy Lee
Billy is the Product Manager at Ecoleathery. He loves coming up with new ideas on products development. 15+ years experience in the textile and synthetic leather fabric indutries.