Suede and leather band
Leather and Suede Cords for Jewelry Making
Suede cords and bands are popular materials not only in jewelry making but also for a variety of sewing and crafting purposes. In jewelry design, they are especially used for bracelets and necklaces in bohemian or vintage styles.
Suede is a type of leather made from the inner side of animal hides—typically from calf, lamb, or goat. What sets suede apart is its soft, matte surface and flexible structure, making it ideal for both smooth knots and elegant details in jewelry.
The production of genuine suede begins with the tanning of animal hides, which are then sanded or split to create the velvety texture. Suede cords and bands are then cut into narrow strips and dyed in various shades to match jewelry designs.
Eco- and Animal-Friendly Alternative: Faux Suede
With increasing awareness of sustainability and animal welfare, faux suede (also known as microfiber suede or vegan suede) has become an attractive alternative. This material is made without any animal products, typically from microfibers such as polyester or nylon blended with polyurethane (PU), resulting in a surface and texture that closely resembles real suede.
The benefits of faux suede are numerous:
- Animal-friendly: No animals are used or harmed in the production process.
- Eco-friendly: Modern manufacturing techniques often require less water and emit fewer chemicals compared to traditional leather tanning.
- Recyclable: Some types of faux suede are partially made from recycled materials and are more easily integrated into a circular production cycle.
- Hypoallergenic: As it contains no animal materials, it’s also a good choice for those with leather allergies.
Faux suede allows jewelry designers to create beautiful, ethical products without compromising on aesthetics. It also opens up possibilities for a wider range of colors and consistent textures that are often hard to achieve with natural materials.
