FAQ
Q&AL'arc en Cuir
HOME
FAQ
-
1.L'arc en cuir | Leather Innovation from Taiwan+
L'arc en cuir
Inspired by the French word for rainbow (L'arc-en-ciel), L'arc en cuir symbolizes the diversity of leather colors and limitless creative possibilities.
We position ourselves as a bridge between material innovation and design, offering a wide spectrum of leather solutions without constraint.
Made in Taiwan
At L'arc en cuir, we are committed to elevating Taiwan’s leather industry.
By delivering high-quality, sustainable, and trend-driven materials, we empower local manufacturing to achieve true “Made in Taiwan”
— from raw material to craftsmanship — enhancing global competitiveness.
-
2.What is Cow Split Leather?+
Leather is a layered material:- Top layer: Top-grain leather
- Lower layer: Split leather (cow split leather)
-
3.Is it Genuine Leather?+
Yes. Cow split leather is 100% genuine leather, derived from the inner fibrous layer of natural cowhide. -
4.Suede vs. Cow Split Leather+
Suede refers to leather with a soft, brushed nap surface.
Cow split leather is one of the most common materials used to produce suede finishes.
At L'arc en cuir, we refine split leather into a premium suede texture with a soft touch and elevated appearance.
-
5.Key Characteristics+
- Softer, looser fiber structure
- Excellent abrasion resistance
- Lower tensile strength compared to top-grain leather
- Natural texture variation and depth
-
6.Natural Characteristics+
As a natural material, leather may include:- Insect marks
- Vein patterns
- Growth lines
- Minor scratches or processing marks
-
7.Thickness Options+
L'arc en cuir provides three standard thicknesses:
1.2–1.4 mm / 1.4–1.6 mm / 1.6–1.8 mm, allowing selection based on application needs. -
8.Measurement Unit+
Leather comes in irregular natural shapes, not standard rectangles.
At L'arc en cuir, we use the international standard unit: square feet (sq. ft. / SF). -
9.Utilization Advantage+
With a yield rate of up to 85%, cow split leather offers higher material efficiency than top-grain leather—making it ideal for:- Footwear
- Work gloves
- Leather goods
-
10.Color Transfer+
Despite enhanced fixation during dyeing, color transfer may still occur, especially with dark or highly saturated colors (e.g., red, blue, black).
This is due to leather’s porous, fiber-based dye absorption, distinguishing it from synthetic, coated materials—and serving as a hallmark of genuine leather.
-
11.Physical Swatches+
L'arc en cuir provides physical swatches for evaluating color, thickness, and texture.
Please contact us to request samples. -
12.Water Repellent Performance+
L'arc en cuir is the only authorized supplier in Taiwan applying 3M™ Scotchgard™ technology to leather.
Benefits:- Enhanced water resistance for daily use.
- Reduced moisture absorption.
- Extended product lifespan.
-
13.How should Scotchgard™ treated suede be maintained?+
For Scotchgard™ treated suede, gently blot away water droplets or liquid residue with a clean tissue. -
14.Sustainability & Compliance+
PFAS-Free
3M™ Scotchgard™ uses a fluorine-free (PFAS-free) formula:- Reduced environmental impact
- Improved long-term water resistance
- Efficient full-hide utilization reduces waste
- Lower environmental impact
- Controlled chromium content
- Compliant with EU REACH standards
- All dyes and coatings meet environmental safety requirements
-
15.Flexible Customization+
L'erc en cuir offer:- Different colors
- Embossing & textures
- Specialized finishes
Pricing varies depending on thickness and finishing processes.
Please contact us for detailed quotations—our team will be happy to assist.
-
16.Sampling & MOQ & Lead Time+
Sampling:- MOQ：Single-piece development available
- 14–18 working days
- MOQ: 300 sq. ft.
- 21–25 working days
-
17.Quality Assurance+
L'arc en cuir operates an in-house laboratory, where every batch undergoes internal quality testing prior to shipment.
For large-scale production, we can also arrange testing through third-party certification bodies such as SGS and Intertek (ITS) to meet international standards—ensuring reliability from development to production. -
18.What Makes Our Products Different?+
Our strength lies in combining:- In-house developed leather
- Functional protection technology
-
19.Aging & Patina+
Over time, leather develops a natural patina through:- Body heat
- Friction
- Daily use
-
20.Care Instructions+
- Do not use water or polish on suede surfaces.
- Use a suede brush or soft brush to gently remove dust along the nap.
- For embossed or smooth surfaces, wipe lightly with a slightly damp cloth and air dry naturally.
- Store in a cool, dry, ventilated space
- Avoid direct sunlight and excessive humidity to prevent fiber hardening and mold growth.
-
21.Standard Products+
L'erc en cuir offer:- Corporate gifting solutions
- OEM / ODM development
- Special material collaborations