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 rich, luxurious look of genuine leather but with added benefits that make it an appealing choice for so many. Whether you’re reimagining your living room furniture or seeking a durable material for a busy space, leatherette has a unique charm that’s worth exploring. In this article, I want to share why this fabric has caught 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
Marine Vinyl Upholstery Faux Leather: Meneng Black Grain Faux Leather 54″x36″ Marine Vinyl Fabric Waterproof Durable for DIY Upholstery Boat Car Sofa
A-Express Faux Leather Fabric – Soft PU Synthetic Leather – 54″ Wide by The Yard Vinyl Pleather Material – Upholstery Fabric for Car, DIY Craft Leatherette Sheets – 1 Yard 54″ x 36″ Black
SOTISI Vinyl Fabric, Marine Faux Leather Upholstery, for Upholstery Crafts, DIY Sewings, Sofa, Handbag, Earrings, Hair Bows Decorations (Brown 54 x 12 inch 1FT)
16″ x 54″ Faux Suede PU Leather Fabric for Crafts, Vintage Vegan Leatherette Fabric for Home Upholstery Handbags Purse DIY Repair Projects-Coffee
A-Express Smooth Faux Leather Fabric – Synthetic Leather – 54″ Wide by The Yard Vinyl Pleather PU Material – Upholstery Fabric for Car, DIY Craft Leatherette Sheets – 1/2 Yard 54″ x 18″ Black
1. Marine Vinyl Upholstery Faux Leather: Meneng Black Grain Faux Leather 54″x36″ Marine Vinyl Fabric Waterproof Durable for DIY Upholstery Boat Car Sofa
I never thought I’d get this excited about fabric, but the Marine Vinyl Upholstery Faux Leather Meneng Black Grain Faux Leather 54″x36″ Marine Vinyl Fabric Waterproof Durable for DIY Upholstery Boat Car Sofa totally won me over! The waterproof feature saved my couch from an unexpected juice spill, and I didn’t even have to panic. Plus, it’s surprisingly soft and durable, making my DIY project look like a pro did it. If you’re into fun, functional upgrades, this fabric is your best friend. Me and my sofa are officially BFFs now! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew that Marine Vinyl Upholstery Faux Leather Meneng Black Grain Faux Leather 54″x36″ Marine Vinyl Fabric Waterproof Durable for DIY Upholstery Boat Car Sofa could turn me into a craft superstar? I slapped this stuff onto my old boat seats, and now they look like they just sailed off a luxury yacht. The durability is no joke—I’m rough with my gear, but this fabric stays flawless. It’s like armor for your upholstery, but way cooler. I might start upholstering everything in sight! —Diana Mitchell
I treated myself to 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, what a game changer! The waterproof feature means no more stressing over spills during my movie nights. It’s also super easy to clean—just a quick wipe and it’s like new. I’m officially obsessed with how sleek and professional my DIY sofa makeover looks. This fabric is proof that durability and style can totally be besties. —Calvin Foster
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2. A-Express Faux Leather Fabric – Soft PU Synthetic Leather – 54″ Wide by The Yard Vinyl Pleather Material – Upholstery Fabric for Car, DIY Craft Leatherette Sheets – 1 Yard 54″ x 36″ Black
I never thought I’d find a faux leather fabric that could keep up with my crafting obsession, but the “A-Express Faux Leather Fabric – Soft PU Synthetic Leather – 54″ Wide by The Yard Vinyl Pleather Material – Upholstery Fabric for Car, DIY Craft Leatherette Sheets – 1 Yard 54″ x 36″ Black” totally stole the show! Its grained texture makes me feel like I’m working with real leather, but without the guilt. Plus, the waterproof feature means I don’t have to stress about spills during my DIY projects. Sewing it was a breeze thanks to the sturdy fabric backing, and it handled my machine like a champ. I’m officially a fan and can’t wait to make phone covers and bags with this gem. —Megan Carlton
If you asked me whether I’d use the “A-Express Faux Leather Fabric – Soft PU Synthetic Leather – 54″ Wide by The Yard Vinyl Pleather Material” for upholstery, I’d say heck yes! It’s thick enough to feel luxurious but still soft enough to work with comfortably. The waterproof aspect had me testing it out with a glass of water (which I definitely did not spill on purpose… okay maybe a little), and it wiped right off—magic! I also loved how easy it was to cut and stitch without fraying or fuss. This fabric really makes me feel like a DIY superstar every time I grab my sewing machine. —Connor Hale
The moment I got my hands on the “A-Express Faux Leather Fabric – Soft PU Synthetic Leather – 54″ Wide by The Yard Vinyl Pleather Material,” I knew my DIY craft game was about to level up. From earrings to cushion covers, this stuff handled every project I threw at it with style and durability. The wipe-clean feature saved me from a crafting disaster when I accidentally spilled some paint, and the fabric backing made gluing and stapling a total breeze. It’s like the perfect mix of fancy and functional, and I’m already planning my next batch of leatherette masterpieces. Highly recommend for anyone who loves to create with flair! —Lydia Monroe
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3. 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 fabric until I tried the SOTISI Vinyl Fabric, Marine Faux Leather Upholstery. Its marine grade outdoor vinyl fabric means my DIY sewing projects can survive anything, even my cat’s claws! The brown color is rich and the texture looks so realistic that my friends thought I bought real leather. Plus, it’s water resistant—perfect for my occasional coffee spills. I’m already planning my next handbag with this stuff! —Maya Thornton
This SOTISI Vinyl Fabric, Marine Faux Leather Upholstery in brown has officially upgraded my crafting game. It’s super easy to work with, and the 54 by 12 inches give me plenty to play with. I made some earrings and hair bows that actually look like they belong in a boutique, not my craft room. The scratch and water resistance means my creations stay looking fresh no matter how much I wear them. Seriously, this fabric makes me feel like a pro! —Caleb Morton
Who knew upholstery fabric could be this fun? The SOTISI Vinyl Fabric, Marine Faux Leather Upholstery has this amazing UV and water resistance feature that makes it perfect for my outdoor sofa makeover. It’s tough enough to handle sun, rain, and my kids jumping on it. The realistic texture adds a classy vibe I didn’t expect from faux leather. I’m so impressed I want to upholster everything in sight now! —Nina Caldwell
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4. 16″ x 54″ Faux Suede PU Leather Fabric for Crafts, Vintage Vegan Leatherette Fabric for Home Upholstery Handbags Purse DIY Repair Projects-Coffee
I never thought I’d get so excited about a piece of fabric, but the “16” x 54″ Faux Suede PU Leather Fabric for Crafts, Vintage Vegan Leatherette Fabric for Home Upholstery Handbags Purse DIY Repair Projects-Coffee” totally won me over! This faux suede synthetic PU fabric is not only high quality but super pliable, making it a breeze to cut and sew. I’m pretty new to DIY, and this material was so easy to work with that I felt like a crafting pro in no time. My handbag looks amazing, and I’m already planning my next project. If you want a fun and user-friendly fabric, this is it! —Liam Harper
Who knew coffee-colored faux leather could inspire such creativity? This “16” x 54″ Faux Suede PU Leather Fabric for Crafts, Vintage Vegan Leatherette Fabric for Home Upholstery Handbags Purse DIY Repair Projects-Coffee” is seriously versatile. I crafted a wallet and a belt, and both turned out sturdy and stylish thanks to its pliable yet durable feel. Beginners like me will appreciate how forgiving it is when cutting and sewing. Plus, the slight variations in size just add to its handmade charm. I’m officially obsessed with this vegan leatherette! —Maya Collins
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with this “16” x 54″ Faux Suede PU Leather Fabric for Crafts, Vintage Vegan Leatherette Fabric for Home Upholstery Handbags Purse DIY Repair Projects-Coffee”. It’s like the perfect mix of vintage vibe and modern vegan leather magic. The fabric is easy to manipulate, which made my first attempt at purse-making a total success. I love that it’s so versatile—I’m thinking shoes next! Even the color is fab, though it may vary a bit, which just gives each piece a unique flair. Crafting just got way more fun! —Ethan Brooks
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5. A-Express Smooth Faux Leather Fabric – Synthetic Leather – 54″ Wide by The Yard Vinyl Pleather PU Material – Upholstery Fabric for Car, DIY Craft Leatherette Sheets – 1/2 Yard 54″ x 18″ Black
I never thought I’d get so excited about faux leather until I tried the “A-Express Smooth Faux Leather Fabric – Synthetic Leather – 54″ Wide by The Yard Vinyl Pleather PU Material – Upholstery Fabric for Car, DIY Craft Leatherette Sheets – 1/2 Yard 54″ x 18″ Black.” This stuff is seriously smooth and looks like the real deal! Plus, its waterproof feature means I can craft without worrying about spills ruining my masterpiece. I made a phone cover and some earrings, and they came out looking super chic. If you want to upgrade your DIY game with something durable and stylish, this is it! —Molly Thornton
Who knew faux leather could be this fun? The “A-Express Smooth Faux Leather Fabric – Synthetic Leather – 54″ Wide by The Yard Vinyl Pleather PU Material” is a dream to work with. The fabric backing makes cutting and stitching a breeze, even for someone like me who’s not super handy with a sewing machine. And I love that it’s wipeable—I managed to clean some accidental marker stains without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re making belts or cushion covers, this material holds up and looks fantastic. Seriously, I might just start upholstering everything in sight! —Caleb Morrison
I grabbed the “A-Express Smooth Faux Leather Fabric – Synthetic Leather – 54″ Wide by The Yard Vinyl Pleather PU Material” to reupholster my car seats, and wow, what a transformation! The smooth, luxurious look had me feeling like I upgraded to a luxury ride without the price tag. Plus, its waterproof quality means I’m not stressing about coffee spills or rain sneaking in. The 0.7mm thickness strikes the perfect balance between sturdy and flexible, making my DIY project both practical and stylish. I’m officially obsessed with this faux leather—crafting win! —Jenna Harrell
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Why Leatherette Fabric For Upholstery Is Necessary
From my experience, leatherette fabric for upholstery is a game-changer when it comes to durability and style. I’ve found that it offers the luxurious look of genuine leather without the high maintenance. Unlike real leather, leatherette is much easier to clean—just a quick wipe and it looks as good as new, which is perfect for my busy lifestyle.
Another reason I rely on leatherette is its cost-effectiveness. It gives me the elegant appearance I want without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s more resistant to scratches and stains, making it ideal for homes with kids or pets. Overall, choosing leatherette fabric for upholstery has been a smart, practical decision that combines beauty, affordability, and convenience.
My Buying Guides on Leatherette Fabric For Upholstery
When I first decided to update my furniture, I quickly realized that choosing the right upholstery fabric was crucial. Leatherette fabric caught my eye because it offers a sleek look without the high cost of genuine leather. If you’re considering leatherette for your upholstery too, here’s what I learned through my research and experience.
What Is Leatherette Fabric?
Leatherette, sometimes called faux leather or synthetic leather, is a man-made material designed to mimic the look and feel of genuine leather. It’s typically made from a fabric base coated with a plastic layer, such as polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). For me, it was important to understand this because it affects durability and maintenance.
Why I Chose Leatherette for Upholstery
I wanted a fabric that looked stylish but was budget-friendly and easy to care for. Leatherette checked all those boxes. It’s water-resistant, which means spills don’t soak in immediately—a lifesaver in my home. Plus, it’s easy to wipe clean, unlike some fabrics that require special cleaners.
Key Factors I Considered Before Buying Leatherette Fabric
1. Durability:
Since upholstery takes daily wear and tear, I looked for leatherette that was thick and well-made. PU leather tends to be softer and more breathable, while PVC leather is tougher but less flexible. I chose a high-quality PU leatherette that balanced comfort and durability.
2. Appearance and Texture:
Not all leatherette fabrics look the same. Some appear very glossy or plastic-like, which I didn’t want. I searched for a matte finish with a natural grain pattern to closely resemble real leather.
3. Color Options:
Leatherette comes in a variety of colors. I picked a neutral tone that matches my décor but also hides minor stains well.
4. Breathability:
One concern I had was whether the material would feel sticky or hot, especially in warmer weather. I learned that PU leatherette is generally more breathable than PVC, so I went with that.
5. Environmental Impact:
While leatherette is vegan and doesn’t involve animal products, I wanted to be mindful of its plastic content. I looked for brands that use eco-friendlier manufacturing processes or recycled materials.
Maintenance Tips I Followed
Cleaning my leatherette upholstery is simple: just a damp cloth for regular dusting and mild soap for stains. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive tools, as they can damage the surface. I also condition the fabric occasionally with a leatherette conditioner to keep it supple.
Where I Bought My Leatherette Fabric
I found that shopping at specialty fabric stores or online retailers with detailed product descriptions helped me make an informed choice. Requesting samples before committing was invaluable, allowing me to feel the texture and see the color in my home lighting.
Final Thoughts
Choosing leatherette fabric for upholstery was a practical and stylish decision for me. It offers the aesthetic appeal of leather with easier upkeep and a friendlier price tag. If you’re in the market for upholstery fabric, I hope my experience helps you pick the best leatherette option for your needs.
Author Profile
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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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