Leather furniture and accessories can add a touch of luxury to any home. However, they are not immune to wear and tear, which can lead to cracks and scratches. Luckily, there are ways to repair leather damage without having to replace the entire item.
One of the most common issues with leather is cracking. Unfortunately, the only way to uncrack leather is to replace it. A leather repair specialist may clean the leather and re-color it to give it a uniform appearance, but the cracks will still be visible. Alternatively, the specialist may replace the cracked areas and match the new leather to the original color. This option works best when working with a panel of leather, such as a car seat or furniture cushion.
Pets can also cause damage to leather furniture, especially cats and dogs. To prevent scratches, it is best not to allow them on the table. If your pet has caused damage, you may be able to use a leather filler or tanner’s resin to cover the scratches.
Before applying the filler, consider purchasing a scratching post for your cat and placing it near the furniture. For scratches that have torn the leather, sand the surface lightly with 1000-grit wet sandpaper until the surface is smooth. If the damage is extensive, a professional may need to re-color the furniture.
If your leather has a small tear and is not highly visible, a leather repair kit may be sufficient. Follow the instructions carefully, but be aware that the repair material may not bond well with old leather or if the heating element supplied with the kit is not hot enough.
Most repair kits come with grain papers that you rub over the repaired area to imprint a grain-like finish that resembles the original undamaged leather. However, it is difficult to match color, and the repair may show if the leather is not black. Placing a small piece of cloth and padding under the tear may help hold the edges together while the adhesive dries.
Stuck leather can also be a problem. If the sides of a leather item, such as a purse, appear to be stuck together, check inside to see where they are sticking. Hold the item over a pot of boiling water to expand the pores in the leather and try to work the sides free. Alternatively, try working leather cleaner in between the sides to loosen any dirt or grime. If the sides are still stuck, take the item to a cobbler for repair.
For specialized leather repair services or professional training, ADVLeather.com offers a variety of options. They provide private tutoring to teach individuals how to clean or repair leather items themselves. Additionally, they offer specialized leather repair services and training for individuals interested in starting a leather repair business.
In summary, leather damage is not the end of the world, as there are many ways to repair it without having to replace the entire item. If the leather is cracked, it may need to be replaced, but a leather repair specialist can clean and re-color it to give it a uniform appearance. For scratches, use a leather filler or tanner’s resin to cover them, and consider purchasing a scratching post for your pet.
If the leather has a small tear, a leather repair kit may be sufficient, but the repaired area will always be weaker. If the leather is stuck, hold it over boiling water or try working leather cleaner between the sides. For more specialized leather repair services, ADVLeather.com offers private tutoring and professional training.
