Hardened Leather vs Rust

How close are they?

ΔE 18.3, loose: different enough that you should pick on purpose. Rust is a little darker, cooler than Hardened Leather.

Can I use Rust instead of Hardened Leather?

Not as a straight swap; see the closer alternatives below. Loose match (ΔE 18). Rust is a little darker, cooler than Hardened Leather.

Can I use Hardened Leather instead of Rust?

The same difference applies the other way round: Hardened Leather is a little lighter, warmer.

ΔE is the colour difference between our two swatch estimates: under about 6 is close, over about 15 is loose. Real paints also differ in finish, coverage and how they thin, so test before you commit.