Both can work—choose based on project and budget.

• Genuine leather: Durable, develops character, ideal for tooling, carving, belts and long‑wear items. It typically needs occasional conditioning and has natural variations.
• Faux (PU) leather: Consistent color/texture, easier to clean, great for upholstery, costumes and lightweight crafts. It’s generally not suitable for deep tooling.

Check product descriptions for thickness (mm/oz) and finish. If you want to stamp or wet mold, look for vegetable‑tanned hide. For wipe‑clean surfaces or bold colors, faux leather is a practical pick. Results vary depending on tools and project style.

Thickness depends on style and hardware, but these ranges are common.

• Belts: Many makers choose around 7–10 oz (about 2.8–4.0 mm) for a sturdy strap. Slimmer belts can work with 5–6 oz (roughly 2.0–2.4 mm).
• Wallets: Interiors often use 2–4 oz (about 0.8–1.6 mm) to reduce bulk, while outer panels may be 4–6 oz (1.6–2.4 mm).

Product listings show thickness in ounces or millimeters; matching those to your pattern helps. If you’re unsure, start with mid‑weight pieces and test scrap offcuts before committing to final cuts. Results vary based on design, finish and wear.

A few simple steps can help improve cutting results.

1. Work on a self‑healing cutting mat to protect surfaces.
2. Use a straightedge and a sharp precision cutter or rotary tool; replace blades regularly.
3. Mark the back lightly with chalk or pen, then cut in steady passes rather than forcing a single cut.
4. For curves, use a small‑radius cutter and rotate the material, not your hand.
5. Keep hands clear of the cutting path and test technique on scrap first.

Thicker hides may need multiple passes. Faux leather can stretch, so avoid pulling while cutting. Results vary with thickness and finish.

Tooling and faux leathers behave differently when you add texture.

• Vegetable‑tanned tooling leather: Lightly dampen (“case”) the surface, then stamp or carve with leather tools. Let it dry flat so impressions set.
• Faux leather: Deep tooling isn’t typical. You can emboss using pressure dies, textured rollers, or heat‑safe techniques. Always test a small area to avoid finish damage.

Check the product description for suitability. Thickness and finish influence results, so practice on remnants first. Outcomes vary with tools, pressure and moisture levels.

Care methods depend on material type.

• Genuine leather: Dust with a dry cloth. Spot clean with a barely damp cloth; avoid soaking. Condition sparingly with a leather‑safe product, testing a hidden area first.
• Suede: Use a soft brush to lift the nap; address marks with a suede eraser.
• Faux leather: Wipe with mild soap and water; avoid harsh solvents and excessive heat.

Store sheets flat or rolled, away from direct sun and heat. Many Walmart items offer delivery or pickup options, so you can get care supplies and storage bins conveniently. Results vary based on usage and environment.