How to Repair Leather Items

The most amazing part about owning anything made of genuine leather is that it lasts long, is easy to maintain, and looks absolutely gorgeous. However, due to some unforeseen circumstances, our possessions may get scratched, or may sustain some other types of damages.

The key to their repair is the right preparation of the blemished surface, a good repair kit, clean and even finishing coat, and lots of patience. Along with the instructions provided in the repair kit, you will need to follow some more precautions and directions, which are explained in next slides.

Scratches are the most common types of damages that are seen on leather. When the scratches are light, you can simply put a coat of dye over them to make them invisible. It is the deep, conspicuous ones that make the item less attractive. Deep scratches need to be repaired immediately because they can tear the material.

An easy method to repair deep scratches is using repair kits. The kit consists of liquid adhesives in a number of colors, grain paper, and heat applicator. The adhesives are used to cover up the scratches.

Firstly, choose a color that matches with the color of the leather to be repaired. Apply the adhesive evenly onto the scratch with the help of a toothpick. Smooth it in a manner such that it blends well with the leather.

Choose a grain paper from the kit that has a close similarity with the leather grain and put it over the repaired portion. Apply heat to the area using the heat applicator, so that the adhesive bonds well with the surface. Once the item is cooled, it is ready for use.

Place the item on a flat surface and clean it well using a good leather cleaner to get rid of the dirt and grit accumulated on it. Leather cleaning is done because the debris reduces the adhesive power of the glue used for repair. Then, apply the glue into the joint of the leather where it has torn.

If required, ask someone to hold the leather tightly when you are applying the glue. Keep it untouched till the glue dries up thoroughly. Take a fine grade sandpaper and sand the excess of glue that comes out of the seams.

Rub the sandpaper gently or else additional scratches may form on the material. Then, apply the cleaner to remove any excess glue that is left behind. Use the item only after the cleaner is dry.

Clean the leather furniture using a clean soft cloth dipped in a solution of mild dishwashing detergent and water. Wipe off the residue with damp rag and dry it well. Finally, rub some alcohol so that the surface is free from all remnants. Sprinkle the compound available with the repair kit over the affected area.

Spread it evenly over the surface using your wet fingers. Let it dry for some time. The rough surface of the dried compound needs to be made smooth and even, which can be done using alcohol. Apply a protective coat when the alcohol dries completely. A number of coats are needed, but in thin layers.

Also, after every application, the layer should be allowed to dry up before the next coat is applied. Finally, use a conditioner on the mended part.

To facilitate faster drying up of the repaired item, many people use hair driers. However, care should be taken that the dryer is kept on a low heat, and at a sufficient distance, or else it may crack the item. The procedures mentioned in the different sections of how to repair leather items are useful for items like couches, car seats, jackets, bags, and pants.