Leather is one of the most sought-after materials for bags, wallets, belts, and furniture. But with so many synthetic alternatives on the market, it’s easy to be fooled by fake leather that looks real. Whether you’re a consumer looking for quality or a designer selecting materials, knowing how to tell real leather from fake is essential.
As someone who paints on leather for a living, I’ve seen just about everything when it comes to quality. For me, the material I choose is just as important as the artwork I create. When I paint a bag, I put my heart into it, and the last thing I want is for a customer to be disappointed because the leather itself doesn’t hold up. That’s why I care deeply about real leather quality—and why I think you should too.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to tell real leather from fake, including key differences, pros and cons, and tips to avoid getting scammed.
What Is Synthetic Leather?
Before we dive into identifying real leather, let’s look at what synthetic leather actually is.
Also known as “vegan leather,” “PU leather,” or “leatherette,” synthetic leather is made from plastic-based materials designed to mimic the look of real leather. The two most common types are:
- PU (Polyurethane): A synthetic fabric with a polyurethane coating to imitate leather texture.
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): A more rigid, plastic-based material that lacks breathability.
Many people choose synthetic leather because it’s cheaper, easy to clean, and free of animal products, but it does not offer the same durability or natural beauty as real leather.
Genuine Leather vs Synthetic Leather: Pros and Cons
Why Some People Choose Synthetic Leather
✔ More affordable than genuine leather
✔ Easy to manufacture and work with
✔ Consistent texture and color without natural imperfections
✔ Water-resistant and easier to clean
Why Genuine Leather Is the Better Choice
✔ Durable and long-lasting—can last decades with proper care
✔ Breathable—allows air circulation, preventing moisture buildup
✔ Develops a patina—gets more beautiful with time
✔ Unique texture—no two pieces are the same
The Downsides of Fake Leather
✘ Doesn’t breathe—no natural pores, making it sticky and uncomfortable in hot weather
✘ Cracks, peels, and tears over time—especially with heat and humidity
✘ Lacks character—won’t age beautifully like real leather
✘ Feels artificial—even high-quality faux leather doesn’t have the same warmth
If you care about durability and craftsmanship, genuine leather is always the better investment.
How to Tell Real Leather from Fake: 6 Simple Tests
If you’re buying a leather item, don’t just trust the label. Many products marketed as “genuine leather” are actually mixed with synthetic materials. Here’s how to check for yourself:
1. Look at the Back Side
- Fake leather: Has a fabric or plastic-coated backing
- Real leather: Has a rough, fibrous underside
2. Check the Grain Pattern
- Fake leather: Has a perfectly even texture—it’s machine-made
- Real leather: Has natural variations, wrinkles, and scars
3. Examine the Edges
- Fake leather: Has smooth, perfectly cut edges
- Real leather: Has rough, fibrous edges with visible strands
4. Smell the Leather
- Fake leather: Smells like plastic or chemicals
- Real leather: Has a rich, earthy, slightly sweet scent
5. Try the Water Test
- Fake leather: Water sits on the surface and doesn’t absorb
- Real leather: Absorbs water slightly, darkening before drying out
6. Burn Test (If You Own It!)
- Fake leather: Melts and smells like burning plastic
- Real leather: Burns slowly, leaving a solid residue and smelling like burnt hair
If you’re ever unsure, these simple checks will help you tell real leather from fake in seconds.
How to Avoid Fake Leather Scams When Shopping
Fake leather is everywhere, especially in tourist hotspots like Florence, where vendors sell “Italian leather” that’s anything but real. If you want authentic leather, here’s what to watch out for:
Red Flags to Avoid
🚩 Cheap prices – If a “genuine leather” bag costs €10-€20, it’s probably fake
🚩 Too perfect texture – Real leather has natural imperfections, not a plastic-like pattern
🚩 No leather smell – If it smells like nothing or chemicals, it’s likely synthetic
Where to Find Genuine Leather
To buy real leather, skip the tourist markets and visit artisan workshops or reputable leather stores. In cities like Florence, local artisans craft high-quality leather goods using traditional techniques.
A genuine handmade leather belt costs €25-€60, while a real leather bag can range from €100-€300, depending on craftsmanship. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
In Italy, leather quality is certified by institutions such as the ICEC – Institute of Quality Certification for the Tanning Industry, which ensures high standards in the production of Italian leather. Choosing certified leather means investing in authentic, durable materials crafted according to the finest tanning traditions
However, when in doubt, ask questions, feel the material, and check the details to make sure you’re getting real leather.
Final Thoughts: Why Quality Matters
At the end of the day, how to tell real leather from fake comes down to a few key details—texture, smell, edges, and durability. While synthetic leather has its place, it will never match the longevity, breathability, or character of genuine leather.
As someone who paints on leather, I choose only the best materials for my work. Every bag I create is a labor of love, and I would never want a customer to be disappointed by poor-quality leather. That’s why I always check for real, high-quality leather—because craftsmanship deserves a solid foundation.
If you’re investing in leather, take the time to examine it closely, ask questions, and choose quality over shortcuts. A good leather piece isn’t just a purchase—it’s something that lasts.
If you’re passionate about high-quality leather and unique hand-painted designs, explore my shop to discover one-of-a-kind pieces crafted with care and artistry.