Leather furniture can add a luxurious and stylish element to any room. However, over time leather begins to fade, discolor, and dry out. Rather than replacing expensive leather pieces, leather recoloring balm offers an easy and cost-effective way to refresh and revitalize leather furniture. Furniture Clinic’s leather recoloring balm allows you to easily change the color of leather furniture or restore it to its original shade. With just a few simple steps, you can give worn leather a makeover. Here is a guide on how to properly use furniture clinic leather recoloring balm for optimal results.
Assess the Condition of the Leather
Before applying any leather recoloring products, assess the current condition of the leather furniture. Look for any cracks, tears, or damage that may need repairing beforehand. Leather recoloring balm works best on leather that is in relatively good condition without any major flaws or damage. Any repairs should be completed prior to using leather recoloring balm.
Choose the Right Color
Furniture clinic offers a range of leather recoloring balm shades to choose from. First decide if you want to restore the leather to its original color or opt for a brand new color. When selecting a new color, choose a shade that complements the rest of the room’s decor. Neutral earth tones generally work well for leather furniture, but bolder colors can also make a striking statement. Test the recoloring balm on a small inconspicuous area first to ensure you like the shade.
Clean and Prepare the Leather Surface
Properly cleaning and preparing the leather is one of the most important steps when using leather recoloring balm. Any dirt, dust or residue left on the leather can affect how the balm adheres. Start by vacuuming the leather furniture thoroughly to remove any loose debris or dirt. Then use a high quality leather cleaner and conditioner to deep clean the surface. Apply the leather cleaner directly to the furniture, let it soak in for 2-3 minutes, then wipe away with a clean cloth. Allow the leather to completely dry before applying any balm.
Apply the Recoloring Balm
Once the leather surface is clean and dry, you are ready to apply the leather recoloring balm. First, test the balm on a small inconspicuous area and let it dry to ensure you are happy with the color. When ready to apply to the entire surface, use the balm sparingly and rub it into the grain using small circular motions. Only apply a small amount at a time. The balm may appear lighter at first but will darken as it absorbs into the leather. Continue reapplying and rubbing in thin layers of the balm until you achieve the desired color.
Allow Proper Drying Time
It is very important to allow the leather recoloring balm adequate drying time. The initial application will appear light but becomes darker as it dries. Drying time can range from 1-3 hours depending on the thickness applied. Only apply one thin layer at a time and allow it to dry completely before adding additional coats. Applying too much balm or over saturating the leather can lead to tacky, sticky areas. Patience is key for the best results.
Seal and Protect the Leather
Once the recoloring balm has fully dried, the final step is sealing and protecting the leather surface. Use a leather sealer or protective cream to lock in the rejuvenated color. This prevents the balm from wearing off and enhances water resistance. Apply a thin layer of sealer cream with a clean cloth and let it fully absorb into the leather. Buff away any excess cream with a dry cloth. For continued protection, apply additional coats of sealer cream every few months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When using leather recoloring balm, there are a few common mistakes to be aware of:
- Skipping the cleaning process – the leather surface must be dirt and oil free for proper adhesion
- Applying too much balm at once – only apply thin layers to prevent tackiness
- Not allowing proper drying time between coats – balm needs 1-3 hours drying time before adding more
- Neglecting to apply a sealer – sealer protects the recolored leather from wearing off
- Massaging balm too aggressively – gently rub in balm using light circular motions
Tips for Best Results
Follow these useful tips when using leather recoloring balm:
- Test balm on an inconspicuous area first to ensure desired color
- Apply balm thinly and sparingly for an even finish
- Blend edges of balm into surrounding leather to avoid splotchiness
- Maintain even room temperature and ventilation when applying balm
- Work in small sections when applying balm to large surfaces
- Only apply 1-2 thin layers for a natural recolored look
How Long Does it Last?
When properly applied, the rejuvenated color from leather recoloring balms can last 1-3 years with proper care and maintenance. Using a leather sealer after recoloring extends the longevity. However, all leather naturally fades and discolors over time with normal use and exposure to sunlight. Reapply balm whenever the leather begins to lose its luster or look dry.
Is it Permanent?
Leather recoloring balm will not permanently change the original color of the leather. It provides a temporary rejuvenation of color that will eventually fade with normal use over time. Recoloring balm penetrates and adheres to the leather pores to revive the color, but does not permanently dye or restain the leather surface. Reapplication is needed every couple of years to maintain the refreshed color.
Does it Damage the Leather?
High-quality leather recoloring balms such as Furniture Clinic are specially formulated to provide a gentle color restoration without damaging leather. Unlike paints or varnishes, balms contain waxes, oils and pigments that condition leather rather than drying it out. However, repeated heavy applications over time could lead to drying, cracking or discoloration. As long as the balm is applied sparingly according to directions, it will not damage properly conditioned leather.
Can You Apply it to All Leather Types?
Leather recoloring balm is suitable for application to most smooth leather surfaces such as couches, chairs, ottomans, car interiors, leather clothing, purses and more. However, it is not recommended for use on suede or nubuck leathers as it can alter the texture. Test balm on a small hidden area first to ensure compatibility with more delicate or finished leathers. If in doubt, check the manufacturer’s label for application specifications.
Comparison Chart
Here is a helpful comparison chart summarizing key factors when using different leather recoloring products:
| Product | Application Process | Drying Time | Lasting Effect | Potential Damage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leather dye | Requires extensive prep and application with brush/sponge | 24 hours | Permanent, may crack over time | Can over-saturate and dry out leather |
| Leather paint | Spray or brush on and requires masking | 2-3 hours | 2-4 years | Can clog pores and peel |
| Leather balm | Apply by hand and massage into leather | 1-3 hours | 1-3 years | Minimal if applied sparingly |
Recap
Reviving worn leather furniture with recoloring balm is a simple weekend project that can give worn pieces new life. By properly preparing the leather, applying thin layers of balm, allowing adequate drying time, and sealing the surface, you can refresh the color of leather in just a few steps. Avoid common mistakes like over-saturation and impatience for the best results. With the right leather recoloring balm and proper technique, you can easily rejuvenate faded leather furniture.
Conclusion
Leather recoloring balm provides an affordable and effective way to restore the rich color and supple feel to faded leather furniture and accessories. Furniture Clinic’s balm allows even novice DIYers to quickly revive their leather with minimal mess or damage. In just an afternoon, you can give worn, tired leather a much-needed makeover with stunning results. So skip the high cost of leather replacement and rediscover the luxury of your leather with a simple color restoration.
