Upholstery and Fabrics - Can you stain leather?

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View Full Version : Can you stain leather?


Dangerdoll
11-16-08, 07:25 PM
I have a leather couch that has one cusion that has lost a lot of it's color. Is there a product that I can use to stain this cushion back to it's original stain or close to it? The couch is only a couple years old and has no flaw except for that...


jmurray2112
11-19-08, 11:06 PM
There really isn't any way around the fact that your color would need to be matched prior to applying, because even a little off in color-matching can be pretty apparent. You can either contact a local leather repair service, and pay them to do so, or you could take a chance on any number of internet-based DIY sites. Some of which can deliver, but most will not.
Also, it is difficult to know why just one cushion is showing this issue. Is that cushion subject to more use than any other? perhaps posting a picture would help determine the cause.

dhamblet
11-19-08, 11:13 PM
Check with a shoe repair shop???
Last time we checked with a leather repair "professional" they quoted us $100 minimum to just come out with no guarantee on the work.


twelvepole
11-19-08, 11:25 PM
There are many different types of leathers, dyes, and finishes used in the manufacture of leather upholstery. DIY attempts to dye will be less than satisfactory. Leather repairs are best left to a leather professional. Even a leather professional would not guarantee an exact color match.

If one cushion has lost it's color, it's because it is being exposed to more light than the other cushions. It is helpful to rotate cushions. And, more importantly, it is best to protect home furnishings from sunlight. This is best achieved with the proper window treatments, awnings, etc.

Dangerdoll
11-20-08, 04:52 PM
the couch doesnt hit any sunlight at all actually, the lightening is due to someone lying down on the couch and the hair products hitting the couch before the hair is dry but thanks for the advice on moving the cushions around, it makes a lot of sense too! :)

thanks again for the advice....

MrFixIt44
12-02-08, 10:45 PM
Many car club guys have changed the color of leather seats and interiors. I believe the product they use are from "Leatherique", and there are conditioning and prepping prducts also. Should be pretty easy to find a color to match and just darken it a bit to match... I have used shoe polish on the edges of seats where the piping was worn... Good Luck!

twelvepole
12-03-08, 12:10 AM
Leather professional is recommended. Test any DIY methods in inconspicuous areas first. The industry states tht there are too many different types of leathers, dyes, and finishes and recommends professional leather expert rather than DIY.

Dangerdoll
12-12-08, 10:24 AM
I am cautious because I know staining would be appropriate but because it is a cushion where sit, I am hesitant because of the fear of whatever stain would be used would get on people's clothes.... I will consult with a professional, thanks for your time, guys!

getitdone
12-25-08, 06:22 PM
you can stain leather but not in the way you have in mind.
Leather is dyed, your leather piece is already a finished product.
You never will get the color right.