Technically, none of our leatherette has a foam layer. The names stem from a time that the acceptable industry standard composition DID include foam, and precedes our elevation of the standard with our Premium Leatherette®.

All leatherette is composed of an external color layer, internal color layer to which you engrave, and a very thin foam layer applied to a supportive material, usually made of a canvas/felt like material. If production stops here, you have what's known as "NO-FOAM" leatherette, which is the best option for any material that may need to flex, or which may require occasional machine washing. It is roughly .8mm thick! LoneStar Adhesive's composition of Premium Leatherette® includes additional layers that improve the thickness and durability above and beyond what has been accepted as industry standard. Premium Leatherette® is approximately 1.5mm thick.

The Heritage Collection is a collection of Premium Leatherette® that has a smooth, satin sheen on the surface that has improved engraving and cleaning qualities. It has quickly become a favorite for anyone who gives it a shot!

Durra-Bull Adhesive is an American Made thermal activated adhesive used for projects involving leather, leatherette, acrylic, wood veneer, PVC, embroidery, & more! It functions as a polymer that liquefies at a specific temperature, and you utilize a combination of heat + pressure to ensure the adhesive has properly fused the materials. Once hardened, a permanent bond will occur that cannot be altered without extreme damage to one or both of the materials. It activates at a higher heat so YOU can rest assured that it can withstand extreme weather and conditions, protecting your reputation as a maker.

*These directions refer to the application of the adhesive to a material you already have on hand. Recommendations for settings to apply the adhesive backed material to your final project will vary by press used.

To apply adhesive to a material, you may also refer to the blog here: Adhesive Application Instructions.

With the backing of the adhesive facing the heating element you want to press for 10-12 seconds @ 220°F with medium pressure.

*These directions are for the application of the adhesive to a material, NOT the final application. A household iron typically cannot maintain the temperatures necessary to fully activate the adhesive and ensure a solid final application.

To apply adhesive to a material, you may also refer to the blog here: Adhesive Application Instructions.

The iron will need to be set to the cotton/linen setting, using no steam. Place an ironing board or old towel on the stable surface you'll use to iron so that any moisture emitted does not damage the material. Lay the engraving side of the material face-down, with the shiny side of the adhesive sheet facing the material's "back." Position the adhesive sheet to your desired position, then use a gentle upward motion through the center of the adhesive sheet. Work from the center and move outward to reduce wrinkles in the adhesive. Once the entire surface of the adhesive is secured to the material, allow time for cooling and proceed with your project. Some materials such as acrylic and wood veneer will benefit from being placed under a weighted object to ensure the materials remain flat.

Suggested settings for the Branding Iron are 280°F on top and 400°F on bottom for 45 seconds with medium pressure applied.

For most materials, the suggested setting will be 280°F on the top platen and 320°F on bottom platen for 45 seconds. For regular leatherette, 40 seconds will be a preferred starting point.

We suggest starting at 300°F for 50-60 seconds with most materials, including leather that is 4oz or less of thickness. Some customers prefer pre-pressing the hat to warm it up with the top platen or pressing for additional time.

It’s best to hand wash and spot treat your cap with warm water and a light laundry detergent or OxiClean. These are common recommendations from the hat manufacturers themselves, so while the leatherette and adhesive are wash and dryable, and even compatible with dry cleaning agents, our advice is to stick with the recommendations for the most "vulnerable" part of the project.

Orders with adhesive and most materials will be shipped out within 2-3 business days, notwithstanding extenuating circumstances. Items offer by approved vendors in the Maker Roundup will specify their turnaround time within their listing. Custom orders from LSA will be shipped within 7-10 business days unless otherwise specified.