How to Repaint Leather Furniture

Leather furniture is an expensive but durable choice. Therefore, it is highly likely that the furniture will last for many years. For this reason, choosing its color can be a challenging. Luckily, there is a way to make this decision easier. Choose whatever color you want. Unlike other types of furniture materials, leather can be repainted. Whether you are looking to restore the color or completely change the color, you can paint your leather furniture using the same techniques as the professionals.

Things You'll Need

• Leather coloring kit
• Gloves
• Work area protection

Instructions

1. Choose a leather coloring kit. The kit will come equipped with multiple color selections, leather prep, finishing sprays, a spray unit, gloves, a palette knife, an abrasive pad and sponge applicators.

2. Cover your work area. Use newspaper, a sheet or plastic covering to protect your area from exposure to chemicals. Use gloves to protect your skin. Chemicals can cause damage to materials in the surrounding area as well as your skin.

3. Prep your leather furniture. Take the sponge and apply prep solution onto the leather. Then, rub the solution in with an abrasive pad. This process will remove old color and the manufacturer's finish. Continue this process until the old color is striped and the lighter color beneath is exposed.

4. Apply color. Using a different application sponge, apply a thin layer of color to your seats. Color should be applied in smooth, even strokes. If you apply the color too thick, it will cause the paint to bubble or run. If this happens, take a cloth and smooth the surface.

5. Allow the color to dry. If you want a richer color or the first layer did not take well, add additional layers of color until you are satisfied with the appearance. Allow each layer to completely dry. This process will take 45 minutes. However, gently touch the surface to make sure it is dry before proceeding.

6. Apply a thin layer of finishing spray once the color has completely dried.

7. Allow the finishing spray to dry. Wait approximately 48 hours before sitting on your furniture.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the instructions that come with your kit. These are general steps. Actual steps may vary depending on the brand.

References

• Furniture Clinic: How to Restore Leather

Resources

• Leather Magic: Leather Restoration and Coloring Products