Printable Leather & Faux Leather: Sophistication, Texture, and Luxury Branding

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.

What Is Printable Leather or Faux Leather?

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

Where to Use Printable Leather & Faux Leather

• 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.

Printing on Leather Surfaces

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.

Advantages of Printable Leather & Faux Leather

• 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.

Handling & Finishing Notes

• 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

Eco and Ethical Considerations

• 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.

Final Thought

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.