How to Repair Cracked Leather

Cracked leather repair is a skill that can serve you well for a long time to come because it is inevitable that you will come across leather that is cracked. Leather, by definition, is flesh that has been tanned and treated. Unlike living flesh, it simply cannot heal itself. Cracked leather repair takes patience and practice as well some distinct tools. The following article will show you conduct cracked leather repair on most surfaces.

Step 1 - Clean the Leather

Cracked leather repair is not a fast process. Start with cleaning the leather. Since the leather is cracked it is safe to assume that it is older and worn. Use the dry brush to remove any dirt, dust or debris from the leather to be repaired. You want a piece of leather that is soft, clean and flexible. Once the top layer of dirt is removed you can clean the leather. Use the shoe dauber to apply the saddle soap to the leather. You do not have to soak the leather completely through. If, however, you are working on leather belts or shoes then you want to work the saddle soap in until the leather is flexible. Allow the leather to fully dry before you continue. You want the leather to feel somewhat creamy to the touch but not wet and it should remain flexible.

Step 2 - Smoothing the Leather Cracks

Dab the leather that is cracked with a little bit of the mink oil. Smooth the mink oil over the leather by using the back of the stainless steel spoon. Use light pressure when rubbing the cracks until the cracks appear to not be as deep or as pronounced. Working with shoes require that the shoes are stuffed so that the leather is rigid. Use a hard surface when working on belts or similar items.

Step 3 - Treat the Leather

Once the cracks are as good as you can get them you want to condition all of the leather on the item. Shoe cream is a great product for treating cracked leather. Using shoe cream will not only color the cracks in the leather but blend the color of the entire item. This means that cracks in the leather will be well blended. Use leather conditioner at least once a week.

Step 4 - Deeper Cracks

A deep crack can be repaired to look good as new. Use a used dryer sheet cut to the size of the crack plus an extra inch all around. Use a spatula to apply leather glue to the crack's inside and all around it by an inch. Maneuver the dryer sheet into the crack using the spatula while the glue remains wet. Spread out the dryer sheet so it connects to the glue then press the leather together at the sides until the sides touch. Dry the area overnight then apply mink oil to smooth out the crack.