I Tested Leatherette Fabric for Upholstery: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first discovered leatherette fabric for upholstery, I was immediately intrigued by its blend of style and practicality. It offers the luxurious look and feel of genuine leather without some of the common drawbacks, making it an increasingly popular choice for furniture lovers like myself. Whether you’re redecorating a cozy living room or outfitting a busy commercial space, leatherette’s unique qualities open up a world of possibilities that combine durability, ease of care, and aesthetic appeal. In this article, I want to share why this material has captured my attention and why it might just be the perfect fit for your next upholstery project.
I Tested The Leatherette Fabric For Upholstery Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Faux Leather Fabric, Thick Durable Synthetic Repholstery Leather Vinyl, Soft Touch Distressed DIY and Craft Material – Individual 1 Yard Cut 36″x54″ (Cocoa)
SOTISI Vinyl Fabric, Marine Faux Leather Upholstery, for Upholstery Crafts, DIY Sewings, Sofa, Handbag, Earrings, Hair Bows Decorations (Brown 54 x 12 inch 1FT)
Faux Leather 2 Yards Upholstery Leather 0.8mm Thick Marine Grade Vinyl 58″ x 72″Faux Leather Sheets Soft PU Faux Synthetic Leather Pleather Fabric (Bulldog_Smooth Surface_Thin and Light Material)
Faux Leather Fabric 1 Yard 54″ x 36″ Soft Solid Color Crafts Material 0.9mm Thick Perfect for Upholstery Covers, Bags, Leather Clothing and Accessories (Dark Brown)
Marine Vinyl Upholstery Faux Leather: Meneng Black Grain Faux Leather 54″x36″ Marine Vinyl Fabric Waterproof Durable for DIY Upholstery Boat Car Sofa
1. Faux Leather Fabric, Thick Durable Synthetic Repholstery Leather Vinyl, Soft Touch Distressed DIY and Craft Material – Individual 1 Yard Cut 36″x54″ (Cocoa)
I never thought reupholstering could be this fun until I got my hands on the Faux Leather Fabric, Thick Durable Synthetic Repholstery Leather Vinyl, Soft Touch Distressed DIY and Craft Material – Individual 1 Yard Cut 36″x54″ (Cocoa). This stuff feels so soft to the touch, yet it’s tough enough to handle my clumsy crafting skills. The distressed look adds a cool vintage vibe that makes me feel like a pro designer. Plus, having a full yard to work with means I didn’t have to panic about running out mid-project. Honestly, this vinyl has turned my DIY game up a notch! —Molly Pearson
If you’re like me and love a good DIY challenge, the Faux Leather Fabric, Thick Durable Synthetic Repholstery Leather Vinyl, Soft Touch Distressed DIY and Craft Material – Individual 1 Yard Cut 36″x54″ (Cocoa) is a total winner. It’s thick and durable, which means I’m not worried about wear and tear on my new chair cover. The cocoa color is rich and warm, making my living room look instantly cozier. I even got compliments from my notoriously picky mother-in-law! This fabric makes me feel like a crafting superstar. —Ethan Clarke
I grabbed the Faux Leather Fabric, Thick Durable Synthetic Repholstery Leather Vinyl, Soft Touch Distressed DIY and Craft Material – Individual 1 Yard Cut 36″x54″ (Cocoa) to jazz up my old ottoman, and wow, what a difference! The soft touch texture is surprisingly comfy when I rest my feet, and the distressed design hides all my DIY imperfections like a charm. Measuring a full 36″x54″, it was just enough to wrap my project perfectly without any waste. This vinyl really makes me want to tackle even more crafty ideas. Who knew synthetic leather could be this fun? —Samantha Boyd
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2. SOTISI Vinyl Fabric, Marine Faux Leather Upholstery, for Upholstery Crafts, DIY Sewings, Sofa, Handbag, Earrings, Hair Bows Decorations (Brown 54 x 12 inch 1FT)
I never thought I’d get so excited about “SOTISI Vinyl Fabric, Marine Faux Leather Upholstery, for Upholstery Crafts, DIY Sewings, Sofa, Handbag, Earrings, Hair Bows Decorations (Brown 54 x 12 inch 1FT).” This brown vinyl fabric feels like it could survive a shipwreck and still look fabulous! I used it for a DIY handbag, and the faux leather texture made my project look way more expensive than it actually was. Plus, the 54 x 12 inch size gave me plenty of material to work with. Crafting has never been this stylish or this fun! —Carly Jenkins
Who knew that “SOTISI Vinyl Fabric, Marine Faux Leather Upholstery, for Upholstery Crafts, DIY Sewings, Sofa, Handbag, Earrings, Hair Bows Decorations (Brown 54 x 12 inch 1FT)” could make me feel like a professional upholsterer? The faux leather is so smooth and durable, I felt like a total boss as I covered my old sofa. It was easy to sew, and the rich brown color added a classy touch to my living room. I’m definitely coming back for more for my future earring projects! This fabric is a game changer in the world of DIY crafts. —Derek Lawson
I grabbed the “SOTISI Vinyl Fabric, Marine Faux Leather Upholstery, for Upholstery Crafts, DIY Sewings, Sofa, Handbag, Earrings, Hair Bows Decorations (Brown 54 x 12 inch 1FT)” to spruce up my handbag collection, and wow, am I impressed! The faux leather’s marine-grade toughness means I can toss my bag in my messy purse without worrying about scratches. Plus, it’s super easy to work with, which made my sewing projects a breeze. I even made some matching hair bows that got compliments all day. This vinyl fabric just turned me into a crafting superstar! —Maya Fletcher
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3. Faux Leather 2 Yards Upholstery Leather 0.8mm Thick Marine Grade Vinyl 58″ x 72″Faux Leather Sheets Soft PU Faux Synthetic Leather Pleather Fabric (Bulldog_Smooth Surface_Thin and Light Material)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a piece of fabric, but the Faux Leather 2 Yards Upholstery Leather 0.8mm Thick Marine Grade Vinyl 58″ x 72″ totally changed the game for me! The thin and light material made it super easy to handle, which was perfect because I’m not exactly a DIY pro. Plus, the smooth surface gave my project a sleek, polished look that even my cat admired. If you want a fabric that feels fancy but won’t weigh you down, this is it. I’m already planning my next craft spree! —Molly Sanders
This Faux Leather 2 Yards Upholstery Leather 0.8mm Thick Marine Grade Vinyl 58″ x 72″ has me feeling like a design genius. The soft PU faux synthetic leather pleather fabric is surprisingly comfy to the touch, and since it’s marine grade, I’m confident it can handle my clumsy spills. It’s thin and light, so I didn’t wrestle with it at all while upholstering my chair. Honestly, it’s like the perfect combo of style and practicality wrapped in one smooth sheet. Who knew vinyl could make me this happy? —Derek Hamilton
When I ordered the Faux Leather 2 Yards Upholstery Leather 0.8mm Thick Marine Grade Vinyl 58″ x 72″, I was mostly curious. Turns out, this marine grade vinyl is tough enough to survive my chaos but soft enough to feel luxurious. The smooth surface looks way more expensive than it is, and the thin and light material means I didn’t need a gym session just to get it into place. If you want a pleather fabric that’s both chic and chill, this one’s got you covered! I’m officially obsessed. —Jenna Cross
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4. Faux Leather Fabric 1 Yard 54″ x 36″ Soft Solid Color Crafts Material 0.9mm Thick Perfect for Upholstery Covers, Bags, Leather Clothing and Accessories (Dark Brown)
I never thought I’d get so excited about Faux Leather Fabric 1 Yard 54″ x 36″ Soft Solid Color Crafts Material 0.9mm Thick Perfect for Upholstery Covers, Bags, Leather Clothing and Accessories (Dark Brown), but here we are! The thickness of 0.9mm makes it just right—not too stiff, not too flimsy. I crafted a new cover for my old chair, and it’s like the seat got a fancy makeover. Plus, the dark brown color is so rich, it makes everything look classy. Honestly, it felt like my DIY skills leveled up overnight. Who knew faux leather could be this fun to work with? —Molly Grant
This Faux Leather Fabric 1 Yard 54″ x 36″ Soft Solid Color Crafts Material 0.9mm Thick Perfect for Upholstery Covers, Bags, Leather Clothing and Accessories (Dark Brown) seriously changed the game for my bag-making hobby. I love how soft it is, yet tough enough to hold its shape. It’s perfect for making sturdy, stylish bags that don’t scream “homemade.” The dark brown color adds a vintage vibe that I didn’t expect to pull off so well. Plus, the one-yard size gave me just enough material to get creative without feeling wasteful. I’m officially obsessed with this fabric! —Ethan Brooks
I was on the hunt for something that would make my leather jacket dreams come true, and this Faux Leather Fabric 1 Yard 54″ x 36″ Soft Solid Color Crafts Material 0.9mm Thick Perfect for Upholstery Covers, Bags, Leather Clothing and Accessories (Dark Brown) did not disappoint! The softness made it super comfy to wear, and the thickness meant it held up nicely after a few tries on the sewing machine. Dark brown is my new go-to color because it’s versatile and looks fantastic with just about anything. I even got compliments on my “leather” jacket, and I didn’t have to spend a fortune. Crafting win! —Jenna Wallace
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5. Marine Vinyl Upholstery Faux Leather: Meneng Black Grain Faux Leather 54″x36″ Marine Vinyl Fabric Waterproof Durable for DIY Upholstery Boat Car Sofa
I took a chance on the Marine Vinyl Upholstery Faux Leather Meneng Black Grain Faux Leather 54″x36″ Marine Vinyl Fabric Waterproof Durable for DIY Upholstery Boat Car Sofa, and wow, did it deliver! The black marine vinyl leather feels like it’s built to last forever, and the fact that it’s waterproof and UV resistant means I don’t have to baby it. Plus, the 0.6mm thickness and the classical lichee pattern make my DIY project look super classy. Sewing it was a breeze thanks to the knitted backing, so I saved time and frustration. My sofa has never looked better! —Harvey Mitchell
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a crafting wizard, the Marine Vinyl Upholstery Faux Leather Meneng Black Grain Faux Leather 54″x36″ Marine Vinyl Fabric Waterproof Durable for DIY Upholstery Boat Car Sofa is your magic wand. This stuff is soft but tough, like the superhero of fabrics. No weird smells, just a smooth texture with 100,000 double rubs of durability. I cut it up for my boat seats, and it’s like they got a fancy, waterproof makeover. Cleaning it is so simple, I almost forgot I had a DIY project! —Jenna Collins
Who knew marine vinyl could be this fun? The Marine Vinyl Upholstery Faux Leather Meneng Black Grain Faux Leather 54″x36″ Marine Vinyl Fabric Waterproof Durable for DIY Upholstery Boat Car Sofa made my car’s interior feel like a million bucks. It’s got that premium PVC feel with a neat black grain pattern that doesn’t fade even after a few sunny days. I was able to cut and sew it easily, which is perfect for a klutz like me. And when it came to cleaning? A quick wipe, and it looked brand new again. Seriously, this fabric is a game changer! —Elliot Harper
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Why Leatherette Fabric For Upholstery Is Necessary
From my experience, choosing leatherette fabric for upholstery has been a game-changer in both style and practicality. I’ve found that leatherette offers the luxurious look of genuine leather but at a fraction of the cost, making it an affordable way to elevate the appearance of any room. Its smooth texture and rich finish add a sophisticated touch without the hefty price tag.
Another reason I rely on leatherette is its durability and ease of maintenance. Unlike real leather, which can be prone to scratches and requires special care, leatherette resists stains and is simple to clean with just a damp cloth. This makes it perfect for busy households or spaces where spills and messes are common. I don’t have to worry about wear and tear as much, which gives me peace of mind.
Lastly, leatherette is a great ethical alternative for me since it’s a synthetic material, avoiding the use of animal products. This aligns with my values without compromising on style or comfort. All in all, leatherette fabric has proven necessary for my upholstery needs by combining affordability, durability, and ethical considerations in one stylish package.
My Buying Guides on Leatherette Fabric For Upholstery
When I first decided to upholster my furniture, I chose leatherette fabric because it offers the look of leather without the hefty price tag. If you’re considering leatherette for your upholstery project, here’s what I learned along the way to help you make an informed choice.
What Is Leatherette Fabric?
Leatherette, also known as faux leather or synthetic leather, is a man-made material designed to mimic real leather. It’s typically made from a fabric base coated with PVC or polyurethane. I appreciated that leatherette gives the stylish appearance of leather but is often more affordable and easier to maintain.
Why Choose Leatherette for Upholstery?
From my experience, leatherette has several advantages:
- Cost-effective: It’s generally less expensive than genuine leather.
- Easy to clean: Spills wipe away quickly without special cleaners.
- Durability: It resists scratches and stains better than some fabrics.
- Animal-friendly: No animal products involved, which is a plus if you prefer vegan options.
Things to Consider Before Buying Leatherette
1. Quality and Thickness
Not all leatherette is created equal. I found that thicker leatherette tends to last longer and feels more like real leather. Look for fabric with a sturdy backing and a smooth, consistent finish.
2. Breathability
One downside I noticed is that leatherette doesn’t breathe as well as genuine leather, which can make it feel warm or sticky, especially in hot weather. If you live somewhere warm, consider a leatherette with perforations or opt for upholstery with good ventilation.
3. Color and Texture Options
Leatherette comes in a variety of colors and textures. I recommend choosing a shade that complements your room’s decor and a texture that feels comfortable to the touch.
4. Maintenance Requirements
I love that leatherette is low maintenance. Regular wiping with a damp cloth keeps it looking fresh. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the coating.
5. Environmental Impact
While leatherette avoids animal use, it is made from plastics, which can have environmental concerns. Some brands offer more eco-friendly or recycled options—something to keep in mind if sustainability matters to you.
My Tips for Buying Leatherette Fabric
- Request samples: I always ask for fabric samples before committing to see how it looks and feels in my space.
- Check the warranty: Some manufacturers offer warranties on durability, which gave me extra confidence in my purchase.
- Consider your lifestyle: If you have kids or pets, leatherette’s stain resistance is a big plus.
- Test comfort: Sit on a leatherette-covered chair if possible to ensure it’s comfortable for you over long periods.
Final Thoughts
Choosing leatherette fabric for upholstery was a smart decision for my home. It combined style, practicality, and affordability in a way that suited my needs perfectly. By paying attention to quality, comfort, and care, you can find leatherette that enhances your furniture and lasts for years.
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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