>>> Roger, We need help deciding which dye to use.
Dyestuff from transparent to translucent may be used in this sequence of the same color range.
1st – Aniline-21 may be used but be aware that different absorbency rate may produce different color intensity. It only stains the leather protein fiber and may not stain the existing topcoat making scratches and worn areas more obvious compare with topcoat intact areas. Unless the topcoat is first stripped with Stripper-2.3 and a mist test with Hydrator-3.3 to ensure even surface tension with an even appearance. Color intensity is reduced with distilled water or to increase adhesion as well, Adhesor-73 or Aniline-76 Clear is also used.
2nd – Aniline-76 coats over existing topcoats and any surface repairs with Adhesor-73 as well. This will provides a more even appearance. Color intensity is reduced or adjusted with Aniline-76 Clear.
3rd – Antique-27 is a translucent coating dyestuff and only used where light to medium color is the priority. Obscure the blemishes but also kills the beauty of depth and does downgrading the quality of aniline leathers to a dye-pigment hybrid.
>>> There are some cat scratch areas on surface of ottoman.
Surface cat scratches detectable by hand is corrected with Adhesor-73 and fine 1500/2000grit during in-between sanding.
>>> I was thinking to use Antique-27 so i could do a little repair to scratches and bring back the color too.
Quite common to see natural healing scratches normally darker on aniline leathers. Check with your customer preference before doing so. I would go with Aniline-76 and it is still not too late to slightly dull it up with Antique-27.
>>> Attachment 4120
After cleaning, hydration fatliquor. Thought it looked way too dark, but think it looks much improved.
Use Eraser-4, work on half and show some pictures!
>>> Attachment 4121
This is where we pushed top surface down to show against untouched area that has been protected from environment.
>>> Attachment 4122
color di not come back to sides like it did to the top where it was so dry and worn.
The lighter shade is probably the existing topcoat – use Stripper-2.3 and work with nylon stripping detailing brushes. Test with Hydrator-3.3 to inspect darkening penetration. When all the existing topcoat is removed, hydrate to dwell up to 72hrs to reactivate existing dyestuff to re-surface. The objective is to narrow the color appearance prior to redyeing it. Otherwise the color difference may still show through with transparent Aniline-76 dyestuff.
Roger Koh
Leather Care Consultant
[email protected]