February 29 - everyday carry artisans

Bycast Leather

Gaining popularity in recent years, Bycast Leather is desired for its unique shine and easy care. It is a combination of natural leather hides processed and bonded to a man-made surface covering and then coated with a thick layer of polyurethane.  In addition to the highly desirable “shiny” look, the coating helps prevent scratching, gives it a higher resistance to sunlight fading and is an excellent dir-repelling surface.

Bycast can be a top grain or split hide but in either case it is ironed very smooth to remove most of the natural graining. To clean, simply use a damp towel.  Heat from a hairdryer can be used to remove light scratches.

Characteristics of Bycast Leather :

* Uses the bottom split layer of the hide. 
* Is produced by first melting glue into the top surface and rolling on a very thick layer of polyurethane 
* Dyed through. 
* Dark colours are the best alternative.

Advantages of Bycast Leather :

* Very tough & thick depending on manufacturer specification. 
* Require minimal maintenance. 
* Virtually impenetrable to water.

* Low cost alternative to genuine leather.

Cons of Bycast Leather :

* May look unnatural
* Prone to peeling, de-lamination or cracking if not well maintained.
* Suits modern decorating trends. 
* Will not age well like genuine leather