How to DIY Leather Repair

Because it is so durable, leather is a popular choice among consumers looking for quality in their purchases. This attractive material makes a great finish for garments, furniture and other accessories. However, it is still prone to tearing. Because it is generally expensive, it doesn't always make a lot of financial sense to replace your leather piece (be it a purse or a chair) if it rips. Instead, there are many different ways to repair leather yourself and have your piece looking great once again.

Things You'll Need

• Leather repair kit
• Leather swatch
• Garment glue
• Paper
• Pencil
• Scissors
• Flat, heavy object
• Hair dryer or iron (optional)

Instructions

Leather Repair Kit

1. Purchase a liquid leather repair kit from a hardware store and follow the directions closely. The first step with most repair kits is to mix the colors to suit the look of the leather you are trying to repair.

2. Use the spatula that is generally provided to evenly spread the colored liquid adhesive over the tear.

3. Decide which textured grain paper (usually provided in the kit) best matches the texture of your leather. Then, lay that paper flat over the liquid adhesive.

4. Use the heat applicator tool (also, generally provided in the kit) to apply heat to the paper. This will help bond the adhesive to the leather. Then, remove the paper and allow the adhesive to cool.

Gluing and Patching

1. Purchase a leather swatch at a material or craft store. Make sure the swatch closely matches the leather you are trying to repair. If you're repairing a couch or chair, check for a swatch underneath first. Some furniture comes with a matching swatch of material specifically for this situation.

2. Place a piece of paper over the tear and circle it. Then, cut the circle out of the paper. Lay your leather swatch facedown and trace the circle onto it. Then, cut the circle out of the leather swatch.

3. Cover the backside of the patch you just cut out with a layer of garment glue. Then, place it evenly over the tear so that it covers it completely. Act fast, as this glue generally dries quickly. Upon finishing, place a heavy flat object over the patch and allow the glue to dry entirely.

Tips & Warnings

• When using the heat application tool in a liquid leather repair kit, determine whether or not it is producing enough heat to successfully bond the adhesive to the leather. If you've concluded that this is not enough heat, try applying a hair dryer (on high heat) directly to the paper, or use the tip of an iron.