At LDS Bookstore, we offer scriptures to fit every kind of study, from quads and triples to Bibles and copies of the Book of Mormon. One question we hear often is the difference between simulated leather and genuine leather covers. Here's what sets them apart, so you can choose the right set for you.
Simulated Leather
Simulated leather, sometimes called "vegan leather," is a lower-cost alternative that still has the look of real leather. It's made by laminating a polyurethane finish onto a base material, typically cotton or nylon. A roller then presses an artificial grain pattern into the surface to imitate genuine leather.
Another type of vegan leather is PVC faux leather, made from polyvinyl chloride with stabilizers for protection, plasticizers to soften it, and lubricants to make it flexible. It's applied to a base material such as polyester, cotton, or nylon.
Simulated leather is a great budget-friendly choice and works well for anyone living a vegan lifestyle. It's also easier to clean, since most common cleaning products won't damage it. The tradeoff is longevity: simulated leather shows wear sooner than genuine leather.
Our hand-bound simulated leather scriptures come in 8 colors, and we also carry classic simulated leather quads.
Genuine Leather
Genuine leather is made from natural animal hides. Its collagen fibers are tightly intertwined, which gives it superior strength and durability. Colors and finishes vary, but the material itself stays essentially the same.
As genuine leather ages, it softens and develops creases that make each set of scriptures unique, while staying strong for years. It costs more than simulated leather and needs specific care products to clean it, but for durability and long life, it's unmatched.
Our hand-bound genuine leather scriptures come in 30+ colors, plus patterned covers. We also carry classic genuine leather quads.
Quick Comparison
| Simulated Leather | Genuine Leather |
|---|
| Price | Lower | Higher |
|---|
| Durability | Good; shows wear sooner | Excellent; lasts for years |
|---|
| Aging | Wear is more visible | Softens and develops character |
|---|
| Cleaning | Easy with most cleaners | Needs leather-specific care |
|---|
| Vegan | Yes | No |
|---|
Which Should You Choose?
Choose simulated leather if you want color and style at a lower price. Choose genuine leather if you want a set that will last for years and only get better with age. Either way, every set is carefully packaged and can be personalized with a name on the cover.
Compare every cover option on our color scriptures page, or browse all of our LDS scriptures.
Looking for a new set of scriptures? Browse our full collection of LDS scriptures, including hand-bound color scriptures you can personalize, and explore our LDS gifts collection.
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