How does dye coloring described in leather specifications differ from pigment coloring?
When reading in leather product descriptions that dye is used instead of pigment, one might wonder how the two processing methods make a difference in appearance or the feel of use.
While pigment covers the leather surface with a layer of color, dye permeates deep into the leather fibers, leaving the original grain completely intact.
Pigment covers, while dye permeates. Generally, pigment coloring is a process that applies an opaque layer to the leather surface to produce a uniform color. While it easily conceals surface imperfections and resists staining, a coating layer forms over the leather's original texture.
Dye coloring is different. It is a method where pigments soak into the leather's fibrous tissue and color it. When coloring leather, POSTALCO adopts this dye coloring method instead of using pigment[1][2]. Because it is not covered with an artificial coating film, the leather's original grain is revealed as it is[3].
The changes that appear during use are also different. While pigmented leather easily wears down or peels from friction, dyed leather gradually develops a sheen and deepens in color as it absorbs natural oils from hands and sunlight.
hmmm, this choice is meant to embrace the changes experienced through use by preserving the leather's natural texture, rather than smoothly covering up imperfections.
The specific dye ingredients or blending methods used by POSTALCO in the dye coloring process have not yet been confirmed.