another one...also from internet
If you want to know what leather is made from and what people use it for you have a lot to learn. First of all you might already know that leather is basically made out of cow hide. Sometimes it is also made from pig skin, alligator skin and even the skin of snakes. It can be used to make so many things like clothing, baseballs, shoes, belts, bags, and even furniture. It is strong and durable, it can be stretched and shaped any way you want. That is why leather is very famous and also more expensive then other materials.
You might be surprised to know that your baseball mit, your sneakers or even your belt and wrist watch were made from the skin of an animal. When manufacturers make things from leather they know the value of it and make things to sell them for higher prices. Many people are able to differentiate real leather from artificial leather. If you are trying to buy something make sure you can tell the difference because sometime you might run in to very good imitations.
You can tell if something is genuine leather first by the smell. Leather has a distinctive smell that many people would immediately recognize. The only way you will learn this is through experience. Once you start to purchase or be around leather a lot you will know if something is fake.
Another way you can find out if the leather is real is it's feel and texture. Most of the time leather is very soft and has an uneven texture to it. If something look at all stiff then it isn't leather. If it looks like it will tear if you bend it then you know it isn't real because leather is very flexible.
The last thing that you should notice is the threading. When something is made from genuine animal skin that means it is a high quality product. The stitching is always excellent and precise. The thread should appear to be strong. If it is an item that you wear like a jacket or shoes then it should be very comfortable. If it isn't comfortable then be suspicious.
Although most leather furniture is usually good leather you should still do your inspection because, you never know. Sometimes some sofas might look like leather but are only imitation. Once you get to know how leather looks then you will be able to identify it from a distance.
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