Whether it’s the real thing or a high-quality synthetic alternative, these substrates give your print a premium surface and a unique finish that immediately sets it apart.
Here’s what makes printable leather (and leatherette) so compelling — and how to work with it effectively in digital production.
Printable leather substrates include:
Genuine leather — natural hides that have been treated for ink adhesion (less common due to cost and variability)
Faux leather — typically made from polyurethane (PU) or PVC, with a leather-like grain and flexible structure
These materials are designed to be compatible with UV-curable printers, and in some cases, latex or solvent systems.
They offer:
A soft-touch or pebbled texture
Matte or satin finishes for reduced glare
High ink holdout and durable wear resistance
Stretchable or wrap-compatible properties
Luxury retail branding and product displays
Premium packaging or presentation boxes
Furniture panels, wall tiles, or soft signage
Personal accessories (journals, pouches, menus)
Interior décor and hospitality accents
Fashion design and prototype collections
Because it looks and feels upscale, leather-textured substrates work brilliantly when you want your print to exude craftsmanship, quality, or intimacy.
Ink Compatibility:
UV-curable ink is the top choice — dries instantly, adheres well to texture
Latex ink may work on certain coated synthetics (test for adhesion)
Solvent inks require specific topcoats — check material specs
Print tips:
Use height-adjustable print heads for textured surfaces
Run a nozzle test and slow print speed to maintain ink consistency
Avoid oversaturating — leather grain can affect ink pooling
For stretch applications, print before final shaping or mounting
Test print on all real leather — no two hides behave exactly the same.
Tactile texture elevates design and brand presence
Flexible and wrap-ready — ideal for 3D applications
Durable and scratch-resistant
Highly customizable — emboss, stitch, or contour cut after printing
Stitchable for sewn applications or mixed-media construction
Explore materials on Substrate Bank by texture, finish, ink compatibility, and eco-certifications.
Use sharp blades or laser cutters for clean edge detailing
Avoid high heat or solvents during install — may affect texture integrity
Mount with spray adhesive, sewing, or Velcro®
Store flat and unrolled to avoid creasing textured surfaces
For wrapped applications (menus, books, packaging), print first, then shape
Many faux leathers are PVC-free, made from PU or other eco alternatives
Some are Oeko-Tex® certified or use recycled content
Faux leather allows you to offer a cruelty-free luxury look
Always confirm substrate specs if sustainability or ethical sourcing is key to the project.
In digital print, surface matters — and leather-textured materials offer a tactile richness that transforms a visual into an experience. Whether real or faux, these print substrates bring texture, emotion, and craft to every project.
Because in high-end branding, décor, or design, sometimes the material doesn’t just carry the message — it becomes it.