Artificial suede: features, application and care
Artificial suede is a modern material that is in deserved demand among the population. Outwardly, it is almost identical to natural, but there are a number of characteristics where such textiles can even win. At the same time, much less financial resources are required for production.
It is also called "eco-suede", the main difference of which from natural linen is a shorter service life.
What is this material?
Eco-suede is a new generation material. The uninitiated people mistakenly consider it to be a cheap analogue of the natural one, but this is not entirely true. The appearance of such textiles is very presentable, it allows you to use it without loss of quality, but with the lowest material costs and with easier maintenance.
So, faux suede is a material made of polyester and based on natural cotton. It is treated with a special impregnation based on Teflon, which helps it to be more durable and withstand external influences without losing its appearance. For example, eco-suede does not fade and is difficult to tear. And this means that things made of this material on a knitted basis are durable, which cannot but please their owners.
It is quite difficult to distinguish eco-suede from real by eye. Both materials have a characteristic pronounced pile on the outside.
There are two ways to produce this material:
- woven;
- non-woven.
Let's consider the differences between them.
In the first case, microfiber is used, the threads of which are separated and form a fine pile.After it has been processed, the pile is applied to a specially prepared base. At the exit, a canvas is obtained, which is characterized by high strength, but in order for it to become resistant to stretching, it is necessary to apply a special layer. Coats and jackets are made from material of such a plan, it is quite durable and is considered very high quality.
The non-woven method assumes polyester fibers in the materialthat are superimposed on the base. The base itself is cotton or made of silk or synthetics. Nonwoven fabrics require less financial costs of production, and also require less serious maintenance. Most often, this is the material that furniture manufacturers choose to make upholstery for their products.
Summing up, it can be noted that eco-suede contains polyester or microfiber fibers superimposed on synthetic, cotton or silk material.
Advantages and disadvantages
According to consumer reviews, the advantages of eco-suede significantly exceed its disadvantages. However, before purchasing products from such material, you must carefully read its pros and cons.
Let's talk about the merits first. This fabric is versatile and popular at any time and can be used for a variety of interior styles. In this case, we are talking about furniture upholstery. It will look equally good both in a cozy home room and in a strict office. The material practically does not deform and does not wipe off.
As for the natural counterpart, it is capable of stretching and cracking when used as upholstery. With artificial suede, such a nuisance will not happen, stretch marks will not appear even with increased load.
In addition, static electricity cannot build up in it. The entire surface has the same density, which the real one cannot boast of. And also eco-suede can easily withstand direct sunlight without fading or changing color.
The upholstery will not stick to the body and is very comfortable to use at any time of the year. For example, in the cold winter months, the material warms, and in the summer it gives the long-awaited coolness. This also applies to other eco-suede items. Since the canvas is Teflon-impregnated, it is easy to maintain and maintain.
In addition, one cannot fail to note the attractive appearance and visual similarity with natural material.
However, with all the advantages listed, there are a number of disadvantages that you need to be prepared for. For example, leaving, however simple it may be, will still take time. Such materials do not tolerate moisture, so washing should only be done in exceptional cases when other options will not help.
Dry cleaning is the best option. In addition, the fabric is still capable of tearing under certain circumstances, for example, if a pet uses it as a sharpener for its claws. Light suede gets dirty very quickly, so you will have to clean it often or, in the case of furniture, use capes or a removable cover.
Differences from natural fabric
Despite the fact that outwardly artificial and natural materials are very similar, there are still differences between them. And here the question arises - is it possible to distinguish between these 2 types of suede and how to do it? After all, a mistake can cause trouble, for example, when choosing shoes and clothes, buyers often look for a specific type. To answer this question, you need to be aware of some of the subtleties of choice.
So, in order to determine whether a product is natural on the counter, you need to take a closer look.
Real suede looks very natural, its structure is not uniform, and scratches and cracks can also be observed.
Such material is porous and uneven, therefore, when painting, its color will slightly differ in different areas. In addition, the thickness will also vary.
It will be useful to pay attention to the smell. Natural suede smells like leather, while artificial suede gives off a synthetic scent. And, no doubt, the price will be very different. If the material can be touched, you should run your hand over it. In the case of the original, the place where you touch the canvas will brighten a little.
Application
Artificial suede is used for the production of clothing, footwear and upholstery. To make coats and jackets, a cotton-based canvas is most often taken. The sewn items fit perfectly on the figure, hugging it. The base of jersey is an ideal choice for sewing dresses and blouses, as well as for making skirts and original accessories. You can often find gloves, bags and berets made of eco-suede.
In the manufacture of footwear, the material is also in high demand. Boots, boots and shoes are made of it. Furniture factories use artificial suede as upholstery for their products. In addition, we can use this fabric in everyday life.
Recently, very convenient wipes for washing glasses have been made from it, which perfectly absorb moisture.
How to take care of it properly?
If it happens that a stain has appeared on the eco-suede, this is not a reason for panic. Can be easily cleaned at home. As for clothes, they can be washed gently using gentle products. Do not be afraid to stretch it, the procedure will not harm.
Caring for suede shoes is also easy. It can be cleaned with a special brush, the main thing is not to forget about the impregnation, which will help repel water. Such a tool must be chosen, focusing on the brands of well-known manufacturers, a poor-quality composition is able to glue the villi, and if there is color, it can unevenly paint the product, finally ruining it.
As for the upholstery, there are subtleties here. Consumers agree that only dry cleaning can be done. This also applies when greasy spots appear on the material. Applying water will only make it worse. It should be borne in mind that the upholstery needs constant care, it needs to be vacuumed, and the most dirty places should be cleaned with a brush.
If it is not possible to use protective covers and stains appear, you can use detergent, eraser and salt. If you want to use another tool, it is better to test it in advance. To do this, you need to apply the composition to an inconspicuous area of the fabric.
For clothing, try using cool soapy water. It is gently applied to the stain, which is cleaned with a brush. Blotting with a towel will help remove moisture.
When cleaning artificial suede, remember that the movement of the brush should go in the direction of the pile. The material is quite capricious, so it is easier to avoid mistakes than to fix them later.
Which is better: suede, flock or velor?
There is no doubt that beautiful and well-made furniture becomes an adornment of any interior. In addition to internal elements and mechanisms, upholstery plays an important role, for the creation of which a wide variety of materials can be used. Consider which is better - suede, flock or velor.
Velor looks like velvet, but its villi are shorter. Although the material is quite delicate, it is durable and free from deformation. However, wet cleaning is contraindicated for this fabric, as a result of which it will lose its attractive and rich appearance.
Flock also has a pile, but is a non-woven material. It is extremely practical and is often used in the production of furniture in the budget price range.
The canvas calmly tolerates the effects of moisture, it is not afraid of pets who decide to sharpen their claws, and also does not fade in the sun and is not afraid of mechanical stress.The main disadvantage is the ability to quickly absorb odors. This can be a problem, for example, in a room where people smoke.
Suede is very durable, does not wear out, has a rich appearance. At the same time, the price is quite acceptable. However, it does not tolerate harsh chemical environments and can break if severely used.
How to distinguish natural suede is described in the next video.
