How to Smooth Scuffed Leather

Even with the greatest of care, leather can become scuffed.

Rather it be leather furniture, clothing or accessories, leather tends to get scuffed from everyday uses. Even when properly conditioned and cared for, leather can become damaged. Thankfully, repairing scuffed leather is a task that can be completed at home by a novice. However, leather that has tears, gouges and other significant damage may need to be repaired by a professional.

Things You'll Need

• Leather repair kit
• Two washcloths

Instructions

1. Purchase a leather repair kit. The kit should include leather cleaner, leather preparer, sandpaper and leather lotion. Leather repair kits are available at furniture stores, leather stores and most department stores.

2. Squirt a dime-sized amount of leather cleaner on a clean washcloth and wipe over the scuffed leather. Use medium pressure with circular strokes while cleaning.

3. Place a small amount of leather preparer on an unsoiled portion of the washcloth, and apply to the scuffed leather. Rub the preparer into the leather using medium pressure and a circular motion. Let the leather preparer dry completely before sanding.

4. Run the sandpaper (320 grit) over the scuff marks. Use gentle pressure with a circular motion, continuing to sand the scuff marks until they disappear.

5. Apply a small amount of leather lotion to the sanded area. Rub the lotion in using a quick circular motion and medium pressure. Buff with a clean washcloth when finished.

Tips & Warnings

• If the leather is torn, use leather glue to attach the torn edges, and leather filler to fill any holes. Many leather repair kits contain leather glue and leather filler.

• If the leather kit does not come with sandpaper, use a 320 grit paper.

References

• Leather Help: Leather Repairs
• Men's Fashion Blog: Removing Scuffs From Leather Shoes