Leaf Leather FAQ
Common questions about leaf leather, Plant Hide products and what to expect when you buy or stock leaf leather goods.
What is leaf leather?
Leaf leather is a natural material made from real teak leaves that have been harvested, soaked, dried, pressed together and treated with natural resins to create a durable, leather-like sheet. The result is a flexible, textured material that looks and feels like leather — without any animal products or petroleum-based plastic.
How is leaf leather made?
The process starts with harvesting teak leaves — primarily fallen leaves, so no trees are harmed. The leaves are soaked in water to make them pliable, then layered flat together and pressed to bond them into a single sheet. Once dried, the sheets are treated with natural resins to add durability and water resistance, then hand-cut and stitched into wallets and accessories in our Chiang Mai workshop.
Is leaf leather durable?
Yes. Properly treated leaf leather is designed to last for years with normal use. The natural resin treatment adds water resistance and durability, and the layered leaf construction gives it strength. Like any natural material, it will develop a patina over time — which most people love. It won’t crack and peel the way PU leather does.
How does it compare to PU vegan leather?
Most vegan leather alternatives are made from polyurethane (PU) — a petroleum-derived plastic. PU leather looks convincing initially but tends to crack and peel after 1–3 years, and it sheds microplastics throughout its life. Leaf leather is a fully natural material: plant-derived, biodegradable and free from synthetic polymers. It’s also genuinely unique in texture — no two pieces look identical because every leaf has its own grain. See the difference for yourself in our vegan leather wallet range.
Is leaf leather 100% vegan?
Yes. Leaf leather contains no animal products whatsoever. It’s made entirely from plant materials — teak leaves and natural resins. Plant Hide products are also cruelty-free and shipped in plastic-free packaging.
Does it look like real leather?
Leaf leather has a natural, organic texture that’s distinct from animal leather — it doesn’t try to imitate it. The surface shows the grain and pattern of the teak leaf, with natural colour variation. Most people find this more interesting and unique than conventional leather. It’s recognisably different, and that’s part of its appeal.
How do I care for my leaf leather wallet?
Keep it away from prolonged exposure to water and direct sunlight. Wipe it clean with a dry or slightly damp cloth if needed. A light application of natural leather conditioner (beeswax-free if you want to keep it fully vegan) can help maintain the finish over time. Avoid leaving it in extreme heat for long periods.
Where are Plant Hide products made?
All Plant Hide products are handcrafted in our workshop in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand — close to the teak forests where the leaves are sourced. Each piece is made by hand in small batches.
Do you offer wholesale supply?
Yes. We work with eco boutiques, sustainable gift shops and online retailers worldwide. Minimum order quantities are kept low to let you test the range with your customers first. Get in touch via our wholesale page to start a conversation.
Still Have Questions?
Get in touch — we’re happy to answer questions about leaf leather, our products, or wholesale supply.