Sheepskin & Hides

What are Sheepskins and Hides

Rugs and mats serve several aesthetic and functional purposes, including floor protecting and helping with insulation. Sheepskins and hides are a good alternative, that can be used in home decor to cover floors, walls, or even as sofa throws. 

Natural sheepskins and hides are a by-product of the meat industry. Processing through certified tanneries and factories turns them into decorative items ready to use in interiors. However, many artificial alternatives boast the same look and feel like the original product, but are also vegan- and animal-friendly.

Together with hallway runners, rugs, and doormats, these floor coverings add dimension and a feeling of warmth.

Types of Sheepskins

Sheepskin rugs that come from natural origin differ in appearance and quality, depending on the breed and processing.

Icelandic Sheepskin 

Icelandic sheepskin is smooth and full of soft texture, with a pelt of long and short hairs. It can often be found as a part of classic Scandinavian-style interiors. 

Mongolian Sheepskin

Mongolian sheepskins can be easily identified by their naturally crimped texture with a high, wavy, and silky pile. Their unique appeal makes a fabulous style statement in the living room. 

Tibetan Sheepskin

Tibetan lamb is quite similar to the Mongolian, but silkier and frizzier in texture. The fur is soft, slightly curled, and can reach up to 10cm in height. While its natural colour is off-white, it can be easily dyed in a range of different hues.

Persian Sheepskin

Persian lamb is also known as karakul or astrakhan. The fur is distinctive by its tight, close curl that gets more prominent with age. Its typical colours are white, grey and brown.

Mouton Sheepskin

Mouton sheepskin features sheared, treated and straightened hair. What's left after processing is a soft fur that is water-repellent and can be dyed. While it's not uncommon to see deep black sheepskins of this kind, its natural colour is typically off-white. Mouton sheepskin is also water-repellent. 

Shearling Sheepskin

Shearling sheepskin is sheared, and its leather side sueded to give it a more comprehensive appeal. With proper maintenance, it can be quite durable, as long as the lamb side is protected from matting.

Faux Sheepskin & Designer Sheepskin

A faux sheepskin is an ideal option for anyone who would rather not have a rug that comes straight from an animal. Faux sheepskin rugs are typically made from acrylic or polyester. They are soft and smooth, just like the real thing, and can be customised per wish. Designer sheepskin hides are meticulously created to convey a unique appeal. These are delicate, lavish, and often available in stunning colour palettes.

Types of Hides

The best quality cowhide rugs are treated with specialised, traditional methods. Tanning hides means perfecting the final product to the point when it's soft, durable, long-lasting, free of odours and shedding.

White & Black Cowhides

Black and white cowhides make a statement that can't pass unnoticed. They fit rustic interiors as well as modern and minimalist, with a bold monochrome chic.

Grey & White Cowhides

Slightly more discreet than the black and white version, grey cowhides boast a modern, textured look that instantly catches the eye. 

Calf Skin Cowhides

Nothing conveys the flair of a rustic ranch better than an incredibly soft and adaptable calfskin hide rug. 

Speckled Cowhides

Every piece of speckles cowhides is unique. Natural markings, specks, and hues are perfect for modern eclectic and rustic interiors.

Exotic Cowhides

Tigers, zebras, and other exotic animal print cowhides make a vibrant focal point in any home or office. They fit into a range of different decors, from boho to modern minimal. 

Metallic Cowhides

Natural patterns combined with unexpected finishes, such as metallic dyes, add a chic element of surprise to modern interiors.

Short-Haired vs Long-Haired Sheepskins

Not all sheepskins are the same. Some, like goatskins, feature a shorter pile, while others are brushed out to accentuate the lushness and enhance tactile quality. The rug pile depends on the sheepskin's origin, as well as the processing and finishing made by the manufacturer. 

Sheepskin and Hides Maintenance

Sheepskins and hides do need very frequent cleaning, especially when they serve only for decorative purposes. It's sufficient to occasionally blot spills or gently brush them with a pet brush. The best way to dry is naturally, away from direct sunlight. Sun rays can damage or fade the colour and make the fibres brittle.

Sheepskins and hides don't do well in the washing machine. When the time comes for deep cleaning, it's best to use a service of a professional dry cleaner.

Things to Consider When Buying Sheepskin & Hides

Genuine sheepskins come from animal origin, and each piece is authentic in its own way. Each rug will differ in colour, pattern, even pile height, depending on where it comes from. 

On average, choosing the best pile length depends on where and how the sheepskin will be used. For merely decorative purposes, a higher pile is a good option. Still, if the rug will have to endure some traffic, it's more convenient to opt for a short pile or even a cowhide rather than a sheepskin.

Some designer versions come in a range of artificial colours. Sheepskins and hides absorb the dye differently, depending on many factors. As a result, some colour transfer may occur. It's best to avoid putting vibrantly coloured sheepskin on white and sensitive surfaces, and use all-natural hide - or at least place a protective mat underneath.

If you need assistance to select the best sheepskins & hides for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.