How to Redye a Leather Sofa
A great way to restore a leather sofa is to re-dye it. Whether you are looking to change the color or bring back the original color, re-dying your leather sofa is a great alternative to buying new furniture. You can re-dye leather using the same techniques the professionals use when crafting leather furniture. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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How to re-dye a leather sofa
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Choose a leather coloring kit. You can find these kits at most furniture stores or order your kit online. (See Resources.) Most kits will come with multiple color selections, leather prep cleaner, finishing sprays, a spray unit, gloves and sponge applicators. Make sure your kit comes with all the necessary tools and the color you desire.
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Prepare your work area. The most important part of preparation is covering the area around your furniture. Use newspaper, a sheet or plastic covering to protect other items from exposure to chemicals.
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Read the instructions. Although the steps are mapped out here, read the instructions that come with your kit. Instructions may vary depending on brand.
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Prep your sofa. Use a sponge to clean the sofa using the leather prep. The leather prep cleaner is used to remove dirt and de-greases the leather so the new color can fully penetrate. Not prepping your sofa will cause adhesion problems.
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Apply color. Using a different application sponge, add a thin layer of color to your sofa. Apply color in smooth, even strokes. Applying the color too thick will cause bubbles and runs. If you notice this, take a cloth and immediately smooth the surface. Allow the layer to dry. If needed, repeat this step until the color is as dark as you would like.
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Attach the spray unit to the color pick-up tube to apply the spray layer. Hold the spray about 6 to 8 inches from the surface, and evenly apply a thin layer of color.
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Once the color has completely dried, apply a thin layer of finishing spray.
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Allow the sofa to dry. Wait approximately 48 hours before disturbing your furniture.
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Tips & Warnings
Leather dye can cause damage to the skin as well as ruin clothing and other materials. Use the gloves that come with the kit and make sure you completely cover your working area.
