5. Full grain - These hides are selected for only the finest furniture as the hides have very few markings on them and will not receive any top surface treatments to cover up the natural markings. The beauty is allowed to show through. This leather receives additional tumbling during the tanning process to give it its luxurious, supple feel.
6. Top grain - The outer layer of the hide and the best part to use in making furniture. It has all the strength of the hide and will provide you with years of durable comfort. Furniture that is constructed with only 100% top-grain will be of a higher quality than that of leather-matched or split-grain leather.
7. Split Hide - the underside of the hide directly beneath the top grain layer, and does not have any graining. It starts out as suede and must be buffed smooth and then embossed with a grain pattern. It is most commonly used on the sides or backs of furniture. It should never be used in the seat areas or the arm rests, as it has less strength and is more likely to crack or split.