How to Remove Patches From Leather

It is a simple process to remove patches from leather.

Patches are usually attached to leather by sewing or with adhesives. In either case, the key to removing the patch is to go slowly and carefully, and to allow enough time for the patch to come away without damaging the leather. Each patch should take 10 minutes or less to remove from a leather jacket.

Things You'll Need

• Seam ripper
• Rubber gloves
• Adhesive remover
• Soft cloths
• Spray metal lubricant
• Leather cleaner

Instructions

Removing a Sewn-On Patch

1. Fold down the edge of the patch to expose the seam where the patch attaches to the leather.

2. Slip the edge of the seam ripper between the threads and the leather, and cut the threads.

3. Pull out the threads with your fingers.

Removing a Glued-On Patch

1. Put on rubber gloves to protect your hands. Apply the adhesive remover to a soft cloth. Rub the adhesive remover under the edges of the patch to loosen the adhesive. Carefully work your way inward until the patch comes off. You may have to allow the adhesive remover to sit for five minutes around the patch to loosen the glue if the patch does not come off after a few seconds.

2. Spray any remaining adhesive on the surface of the leather with metal lubricant. Allow the lubricant to sit for about 10 minutes. Wipe away any remaining glue residue with a soft cloth. Repeat the process until all of the adhesive is removed from the leather.

3. Clean the surface of the leather item with leather cleaner to remove all traces of adhesive remover. Work the leather cleaner into the surface of the leather with a soft cloth until the cloth no longer picks up dust or dirt.

References

• Reader's Digest: Wow, Look What WD-40 Can Do!
• "Leather Care Technician Manual;" Lonnie McDonald; 2004