>>> We did attempt to condition & it did make the leather darker,
“Conditioners” are not used originally in any modern tannery where this leather comes from - most conditioners also cautious on the use on suede, (since the finishes have worn away, it makes the appearance darkening effect more obvious). To rejuvenate the leather back to its original suppleness using Hydrator-3.3 > Fatliquor-5.0 > Hydrator-3.3 is comparable and will not produce such blotchy darkening effect.
>>> The arm rests look like they weren't ever cleaned & its begun to crack on the cushions as well. I'd like to see an end to further degradation & bring back whatever I can.
It is very important to note that the leather should not be allow to dry without sufficient Fatliquor-5.0 (15% of fat and oil) otherwise the crack may accelerate. This is known as the “wet process”, the same principle practice in modern tannery. Only safe to let the leather dry only after the fatliquoring process.
>>> I'm fine with color alterations
There are two options to color refinishing. One (1) is to retain the original “Aniline” characteristic and two (1) is to alter with camouflaging the damaged areas to even out its appearance, prior to top-up with “Aniline” finish.
Here is the pros and cons:
Option (1).
Just a topcoat refinishing with AnilineTop-76G.
And here are the sequence of process based on Kit-A6.tc
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http://www.leatherdoctor.com/kit-a6-tc-aniline-leather-topcoat-refinishing-kit/
The sequence of process is as follows:
1) Degreasing - Degreaser-2.2 > Acidifier-2.0/Rinse-3.0 > Hydrator-3.3
2) All other stains removal follows as the next continuous step while keeping the leather wet or at least 25% moisture content from preventing cracking due to insufficient percentage of fatliquor (fat and oil) content of average 15%.
3) Hydrator-3-3 use to reactivate the dormant dyestuff within the leather structure to resurface (may used part of the trim for a test - soak up until a little moisture ooze out of the leather structure and leave it on a zip lock back for 72hours - with interval topping up to that level of moisture fullness). Remove the sample from the zip lock bag and wipe the wet suede surface until the towel shows dry (check for dye transfer if any which is a good sign and continue Fatliquor-5.0, with each absorption cycle more is applied until the last application show surface saturation then leave to slow complete dry. When dry compare it with the other half to inspect increase in color saturation. Note that in the actual application, AnilineTop-76G will amplify the color saturation further.
4) This is a simpler approach, may not get the rich new color but will retain the originality. A 100% is necessary
other any un-removed stains may show through. Using a satin AnilineTop-76S will make the stain less clear is another option without the need to alter its original aniline characteristic (maintain its original value).
Option (2).
A complete refinishing with Aniline-76 system based on Kit-A7.cl
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http://www.leatherdoctor.com/kit-a7-cl-aniline-leather-dye-refinishing-kit/
The color choice would be dark enough to camouflage those dark natural scar marks we see on picture #4. Note that it takes more skill to apply a ”transparent” dyestuff then an “opaque” pigment. That is also why transparent varnishing furnishing and musical instruments cost very much more then flat painted. Bare in mind, this is not a cheap leather to have to keep up with the original standard. That is why matching Aniline-76 system is recommended then the easier application of Micro-54 system. Micro-54 system will devalue this leather if we take that route.
The sequence of process is as follows:
1) Degreasing - Degreaser-2.2 > Acidifier-2.0/Rinse-3.0 > Hydrator-3.3
2) All other stains removal follows as the next continuous step while keeping the leather wet or at least 25% moisture content from preventing cracking due to insufficient percentage of fatliquor (fat and oil) content of average 15%.
3) Hydrator-3-3 use to reactivate the dormant dyestuff . . . (same as above option (1)).
4) Without letting the Hydrator-3.3 from complete dry or about 25% moisture level or wiping it from damp until towel shows dry, Fatliquor-5.0 continues described as above.
5) Any fatliquor residue remaining on its surface has to be removed with Hydrator-3.3 again.
6) Dry preparation and is ready for any repairs.
7) Aniline-76 system comprises of Adhesor-73 > Aniline-76G/S > AnilineTop-76G > Protector-B/B+
See this guide for other known stain
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Let me know your option and we can go into further details.
Roger Koh
Leather Care System Formulator
Consultant / Practitioner / Instructor
web: www.leatherdoctor.com
forum: www.leathercleaningrestorationforum.com
email:
[email protected]