Ah Renza -
Looks like we're cut from the same cloth re: things being straight. When we were remodeling our home, I drove my contractor crazy telling him things weren't straight. There were many time when the level came out and voila, I was always right! We always had a good laugh!
You know, I emailed HH about the leather and my displeasure, thinking that it may have been a one off, but never got a reply. NOT GOOD.
So, I Am away for a bit, so cannot answer your questions about the leather. It truly feels and looks like paper!!