How to Redo Leather Seats

Leather looks better when it is unblemished.

Leather seats are attractive and resistant to damage, but that does not mean they cannot be damaged at all. Excessive moisture affects leather over time and the material punctures if struck with something sharp enough. Seats get worn as well from the constant friction of people sliding on and off the leather as they get up and sit down. Leather is expensive to replace so improving the look of the seats you already have helps save you money. Redoing leather seats in this way requires some attention and the proper tools, but the results revitalize your leather chairs.

Things You'll Need

• Soft sponge
• Mild detergent
• Cotton ball
• Rubbing alcohol
• Leather cleaner
• Soft cloth
• 220 grit or 100 grit sandpaper
• Leather adhesive
• Leather repair patch
• Leather oil

Instructions

1. Clean the leather thoroughly with a soft sponge and mild detergent. Keep the sponge damp but not soaking wet so the leather does not get too moist. This removes any dirt, debris or dust from the leather. Dry the seats with a towel.

2. Soak a cotton ball with a rubbing alcohol and rub down the leather to further clean it and remove materials that interfere with the repair and restoration process.

3. Spray a leather cleaner onto the seat and rub it in vigorously. Wipe any excess away with paper towel or a soft cloth.

4. Rub a fine sandpaper over any cracked leather on the chair. A 220 grit paper is usually effective, but severely cracked leather needs 100 grit.

5. Wipe a leather adhesive around any holes in the leather and attach a leather patch to it. The patch needs to be the same color as the surrounding leather for it to look its best. Sand the patch with the sand paper and then apply a leather oil to treat the patch so it matches the surrounding material.

6. Wipe down all the leather on the chair with leather oil to help restore its look and give the chair a uniform appearance. Allow the chair to dry fully before sitting in it again.

Tips & Warnings

• Leather repair kits usually include the necessary oils, sandpapers and patch materials to redo the chair effectively.

References

• Superior Restoration Products: Leather Repair Instructions
• Leather Magic: Repair Instructions