How to Repair a Scratched Leather Couch

Getting rid of scratches on your leather couch is a simple DIY task.

A scratch on the surface of your leather couch doesn't spell the end of a favorite piece of furniture. There is an easy way to get rid of unsightly scrapes caused by cat claws, careless use or any other accident. You'll need a few specialized items to get rid of the damage, but making a scratch disappear is worth it.

Things You'll Need

• Alcohol leather cleaner
• Cloth
• Touch-up pigment
• Fine paintbrush
• Hair dryer
• Leather protector

Instructions

1. Wash down the area on the couch with the scratch on it with alcohol leather cleaner. Do not rub the alcohol into the leather. Pour alcohol cleaner on a piece of cloth and gently dab the scratched area.

2. Prepare a leather touch-up pigment according to the manufacturer's instructions.

3. Apply the pigment to the scratch on the couch. Use a fine paintbrush to dab the pigment onto the discolored, scratched area.

4. Paint a thin layer of pigment over the repaired spot and blend it into the undamaged surrounding area. Apply a few thin layers until the scratches are no longer visible. Dry the pigment with a hair dryer after each layer you apply. Leave the pigment to set overnight.

5. Pour leather protector onto a clean cloth and wipe it onto the couch. Apply the leather protector on the whole surface area.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't apply thick layers of pigment or it will be difficult to blend the spots together.

• Test the alcohol cleaner on an unseen portion of the leather to see if it causes discoloration; wait until the leather dries to determine if there is a change.

References

• LTT Leather Care: Cat Scratches