How to Do a Good Leather Repair

Leather that is properly maintained and cared can have a long lifespan.

The key to keeping leather in good condition is regular maintenance and care, which allows the leather to last for a number of years. However, even though leather is a rather durable material, it can become damaged after long periods of time, as well as scratched and torn. Some leather products that are more used than others, such as a clothing that is worn often, can become damaged quicker than other goods. With the right tools and leather cleaning products, you can repair the leather goods yourself to restore the damaged areas.

Things You'll Need

• Liquid leather repair kit
• Toothpick
• Leather dye
• Cotton swabs
• Rubbing alcohol
• Blow dryer
• Measuring cup
• Cream tartar
• Lemon juice
• Clean rags
• Soft cloths
• Mayonnaise
• Lint-free cloth

Instructions

Tears and Scratches

1. Obtain a liquid leather repair kit. These can be found at many crafts stores or even furniture stores. Most kits are colored so you can pick the color closest to that of the damaged leather good.

2. Use a toothpick to spread the adhesive or repair paste on the scratched spot. Apply the grain paper over the adhesive. This grain paper should be included in the liquid leather repair kit. Generally, the kit comes with various types of grain paper. Choose the grain paper that matches the grain of the leather.

3. Rub the included heat applicator to the grain paper in order to apply the grain. Read the label on the repair kit to determine how long the heat applicator should be left on. Remove the applicator after the required time and peel away the grain paper from the adhesive.

Faded and Discolored Leather

1. Purchase a leather die that is of the same color or closest in color to the faded leather item.

2. Apply the dye on the discolored or faded area with a toothpick. Ensure to spread the dye evenly on the damaged area.

3. Allow enough time for the dye to dry. Read the label to determine drying time.

Protein-based Stains

1. Measure one part lemon juice and one part cream tartar. Mix the items thoroughly in the measuring cup. Use the mixture to remove protein-based stains on leather such as blood, mud and food.

2. Apply the lemon juice and mixture to a cotton swab and rub it onto the stain. Allow the paste to set for approximately 10 to 15 minutes.

3. Spread a second layer of paste above the first layer. Use a clean and dampened rag to remove both layers of paste from the leather. Buff the leather with a soft cloth once the paste is removed.

Other Stains and Mold

1. Remove ink stains and scribbles from leather with a small amount of rubbing alcohol. Apply the rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab and rub the alcohol into the stained spot. Use circular motions until the stains fade or disappear from the leather. Dry the damp spot with a blow dryer on its lowest setting.

2. Apply a small amount of mayonnaise to water stains and rings on leather. Let the stain sit for a few hours and use a dry, clean rag to wipe off the mayonnaise.

3. Remove mildew and mold on leather by using a mixture of one part water and one part rubbing alcohol. Apply the mixture to the mold with a dampened cloth. Wipe the area clean with a lint-free cloth.

References

• DIY Life: The Daily Fix: How to Clean Leather Furniture
• Beauty Cosmetic Guides: How to repair leather scratches?
• Monster Guide: How to Clean Leather