Tooled leather, with its intricate designs and unique character, requires specific care to maintain its beauty and longevity. This guide outlines a proven restoration process for dry and stained tooled leather, using readily available materials.
Restoring Dry and Stained Tooled Leather
A successful restoration of two framed leather art pieces, stored for over 20 years, involved a multi-step process. The leather, though dry, was thankfully free of cracks or rot. One piece, however, had noticeable stains.
Cleaning and Preparing the Leather
The initial step involved applying a deglazer to remove any remaining sealant. A mixture of soda water, lemon juice, and white vinegar was then used for general cleaning, effectively addressing the stains. Allowing the leather to dry thoroughly after cleaning is crucial before proceeding to the next stage.
Conditioning the Leather
Four applications of pure neatsfoot oil were applied, with 24 hours of drying time between each application. This process revitalized the leather, restoring its suppleness and preventing further drying. Neatsfoot oil is known for its deep conditioning properties, making it ideal for rejuvenating dry leather.
Sealing and Finishing
A final protective layer was applied using a 50/50 blend of Resolene and distilled water. While this sealant caused slight darkening, it ultimately restored the leather to its original color. Resolene provides a durable finish, protecting the leather from future damage and wear.
Results and Observations
The slight darkening from the Resolene returned the pieces to their original shade, a fortunate outcome considering their sentimental value. The stains were rendered virtually invisible, highlighting the effectiveness of the cleaning process. The overall restoration successfully brought these works of art back to life. The use of neatsfoot oil proved essential in rehydrating the dry leather without causing undue darkening. The Resolene sealant, while slightly darkening the leather, provided necessary protection and ultimately restored the original color.
