Kovi Leather Care & Ordering Instructions

Kovi Fabrics offers a wide selection of hide qualities in hundreds of colors from some of the best tanneries in the world. All of our leathers are aniline-dyed in the drum and top-coated with semi-aniline dyes to perfect the color and add additional protection. Each hide is hand-selected for quality and craftsmanship, ensuring a large, clean cutting area. 

When you purchase hide, keep in mind that one of the beauty is that each hide is unique, with individual characteristics such as neck wrinkles, imperfections, and range marks, evidence that it is a natural material. The more natural the leather is, the better it is!

All Kovi hides are upholstery grade, measuring between .9 and 1.3 mm in thickness, ideal for cutting, sewing, and draping. Our leathers are a byproduct of the meat and dairy industry. 

Please contact Customer Service for any questions you may have.

Ordering Info

Kovi leather is sold by the hide, which is measured in square feet. When ordering, it is simple to convert the required yardage of fabric into how much you need to order. There are 18 square feet of leather in one yard of fabric based on a width of 54”. This conversion takes waste into consideration because hides are irregularly shaped and narrow in the neck area than the butt area. 

A typical cowhide ranges from 45 – 55 square feet or approximately 3 yards of fabric.

If you are supplying the hide you purchase as a COL, the receiving manufacturer should be able to provide you with the square footage your job requires. You do not need to add 10% overage to that amount.

Leather Maintenance

Leather is a natural material that is inherently durable and stain-resistant. If properly cared for, it will last a lifetime. It has been said that the best maintenance is use, but a small effort on your part will go a long way to extend its life. Here is some guidance on how to care for your leather.

Wipe Up Spills Immediately

Blot up spills immediately with a moist microfiber cloth and allow the leather to dry naturally. Do not over-saturate or apply a powered heat source, such as a hair dryer or heat gun, to the tiles.

Clean Regularly

The best way to maintain your leather is to clean it regularly with both a dry and a damp cloth: you should dust it with a dry cloth every few days and wipe it down weekly with a damp cloth weekly. Avoid using soap, and do not over-saturate the cloth. 

Every few months, you should clean your item with a mild, non-detergent soap such as Ivory or Castile soap. First, create a lather using a damp cloth and rub it in a circular motion, applying soft pressure. Then, use a clean damp cloth to wipe away any excess soap and dirt. Always let the leather dry on its own – do not use a blow dryer.

For tough stains, you can purchase a leather cleaner that is appropriate for your item. Do not use common household cleaners or “home remedies,” since they can dry out or discolor your leather. 

After you purchase your cleaner, apply it to a small test area first, just like you would a new skin or hair product, preferably in an inconspicuous area.  Cleaners should be applied in a gentle circular motion and then wiped off with a damp rag.

Conditioning

Your leather should be conditioned every 3 to 6 months. It’s an excellent cure that has dried out and a great preventative technique to keep it healthy and supple. There are many excellent products on the market. Most of them can be rubbed into the leather with a dry cloth, with the excess then gently wiped off. Conditioners are supplied as lotion, creams, or oils and will be soaked up.

A Few Don’ts with Leather

• Do not leave printed material such as newspapers or magazines on your leather, particularly if it is damp or wet.
• Do not let anyone wearing denim jeans that have never been washed sit on your leather.
• If your leather gets wet, let it dry naturally. Do not use artificial heat such as a blow dryer to accelerate drying.
• Do not use tape or adhesives. 
• Avoid contact with oily or greasy substances such as hair products and skin lotion. Keep your leather away from perfumes and household fragrances.
• Do not use detergents or cleansers that are not specifically made for leather and do not use saddle soap.  

Keep in mind that leather is a natural product and will react to use and to its environment. You should welcome your leather’s individuality and unique characteristics. Remember: leather only gets better with age.