fiberleder

Fiberleder, sometimes referred to as faserleder or bonded leather, is a leather-like material produced by binding leather fibers or scraps with a polymer binder to form a sheet. It is typically used as a lower-cost alternative to full hides and is common in furniture, automotive interiors, and bookbinding.

Manufacture involves grinding or shredding leather waste into fibers, sometimes mixing in textile fibers. The fibers are combined with polyurethane or latex binders and pressed under heat to create a uniform sheet. The surface is often dyed, textured, or embossed, and may be coated for durability or water resistance. The resulting material can resemble leather in appearance but is not the same as genuine, full-grain leather.

Characteristics include lower price and more uniform color compared with genuine leather, along with variable durability. Fiberleder can be less resistant to wear, tearing, or cracking and may be less breathable. Its performance depends on the quality of the fibers, binder, and surface treatment. Care guidance typically favors gentle cleaning with mild soap and water and avoiding harsh solvents or prolonged soaking, as heavy moisture can affect the binder.

Applications span affordable furniture upholstery, car and aircraft interiors, book bindings, and certain fashion accessories where a leather-like look is desired without the cost of real leather.

Sustainability and disposal considerations note that using leather waste can reduce material waste, but the environmental impact also depends on the binder chemistry and production processes. Some products are designed for repair or recycling, while others pose challenges at end of life. See also bonded leather, faux leather, and leather recycling.