Product Overview
Aniline Leather Gloss Topcoat Refinishing Kit A6.tc by Leather Doctor is designed for restoring the topcoat of aniline leather surfaces, addressing issues such as wear, scratches, scuffs, abrasions, and damage caused by greasy sweat stains.
Aniline leather is dyed through type to the reverse suede side with transparent aniline dye. The surface is further coated with dye to even out its appearance and sealed with a urethane gloss topcoat, enhancing the beauty of the natural grain.
Proper degreasing and removal of surface and penetrated grease are essential for effective topcoat bonding, following the principles of refinishing. Aniline leather, an amphoteric protein material, is pH-sensitive to alkaline overexposure. Its pH value should be maintained between 3 and 5 during the degreasing process. Products with a high pH can cause the dye to bleed, resulting in blotchy discoloration. Additionally, alkaline degreasers may denature the leather by leaching out tanning agents, leading to tackiness or, in severe cases, sliminess.
Degreasing can also deplete the original fat liquor of the leather, and high pH products exacerbate this drying effect. Replenishing fat and oil content before degreasing is highly recommended for cracked and dried leather. Hydrating and fatliquoring the leather helps prevent excessive drying during the degreasing process, reducing the risk of accentuating or worsening existing cracks.
The products included in Kit A6.tc are concentrated and must be diluted before use. This kit requires dilution with 1.440 kg (approximately 1.58 quarts) of distilled water.
Product Description:
Leather Degreaser 2.2 is a pH 2.2 water-based hydrocarbon degreaser designed to address oil, grease, and sweat stains caused by skin and hair contact. It features tackiness and dye-bleeding control, ensuring safe and effective treatment. This degreaser charges the aniline protein fibers with a positive ionic charge (+ve), strengthening the ionic bond with the negatively charged (-ve) tanning agents, dyes, and fat liquors, while minimizing potential side effects often caused by non-leather-safe products.
Acidifier 2.0, with a pH of 2.0, is used after Degreaser 2.2 to neutralize and balance the pH of aniline leather. It prevents denaturing issues such as bleeding, streaking, or tackiness. This product effectively rectifies the effects of alkaline overexposure caused by spills, contaminants, or inappropriate cleaners.
Cleaner 3.8 is a pH 3.8 leather-safe cleaning solution that emulsifies and lifts oily soils without adverse effects. It is ideal for aniline leather, maintaining the recommended pH range of 3 to 5. When paired with Rinse 3.0, it ensures thorough cleaning, leaving the leather residue-free and restoring its pH integrity.
Rinse 3.0 is a pH 3.0 solution designed to remove suspended soils while restoring the leather's pH integrity. It neutralizes alkaline residues, removes soiling via towel extraction, and reestablishes the ionic balance (+ve), enhancing the bond of tanning agents, dyes, and fat liquors to prevent tackiness, bleeding, and stiffness issues.
Hydrator 3.3 is a pH 3.3 conditioning solution that relaxes leather stiffness, creases, and wrinkles before fatliquoring. By facilitating water movement at the molecular level, it reactivates dormant dyes and reduces surface tension, ensuring smoother, more pliable leather.
Fatliquor 5.0 is a pH 5.0 fat and oil microemulsion that softens aniline leather, counteracting dryness, stiffness, and cracking. Its negatively charged (-ve) formulation replenishes diminishing fats and oils, restoring the leather’s suppleness and preventing premature aging. It plumps the leather for a fuller appearance, while the oils help smooth out coarse breaks and wrinkles.
7: Aniline Finish Topcoat Gloss 76
Gloss 76 is a durable, water-based, fine-particulate urethane-resin topcoat for sealing aniline leather. It offers excellent toughness and flexibility for upholstery, bags, garments, and saddlery. Crosslinker 64 can be added at a 1:95 ratio by weight for extra water resistance or to address finish tackiness. The application involves inspecting stained areas (which may darken during soiling extraction) and smoothing the surface after the first coat has dried.
Protector B is a pH 3.0 rub-resistant, nonstick conditioner that reduces friction and imparts a soft, buttery feel. The ‘Plus’ version adds a leather scent. This protector creates a breathable barrier that resists sticky soiling, helps prevent dye transfer, and makes cleaning easier. It enhances wet and dry rubbing resistance, minimizing stretch, scuffing, and abrasion.
Brush 1 is a detailing brush made with horsehair for soft, scratch-free cleaning of smooth leather. It is ergonomically designed with a sturdy grooved grip for ease of use. The brush measures 7 inches in length with a 1.5-inch three-row horsehair cleaning head.
10: Foam Brush 2
Foam 2 is a 2-inch high-density foam brush resistant to tearing and shredding. It carries more products, ensuring smooth, even application of solutions.
11: Towel 5
Towel 5 is a lint-free, highly absorbent paper towel that functions like cloth. It is stretchable, washable, and strong for wet and dry cleaning.
12: Leather Eraser 4
Eraser 4 is suitable for dry and wet cleaning of all leather types, providing excellent traction for greasy or gummy soil removal.
13: Sand 2000
Sand 2000 is a 2000-grit sandpaper designed for smoothing leather surfaces between coatings without damaging the grain.
Topcoat Refinishing Instructions:
Follow these step-by-step instructions for a seamless refinishing process and to ensure optimal results. By adhering to these guidelines, your aniline leather will retain its beauty, softness, and strength, offering years of lasting quality.
1. Degreasing
1.1. Shake Degreaser 2.2 to form a gel before use.
1.2. Apply Degreaser 2.2 onto Foam 2, Brush 1, or Eraser 4 for better control, then apply it to the stained area.
1.3. Brush the degreaser over the surface and extract suspended soiling using a white absorbent towel, folding and changing sides until the towel shows clean. The leather is now ready for an acidifying rinse.
2. Acidifying Rinse
2.1. Mix Acidifier 2.0 concentrate at a 1:25 ratio with 218 g of distilled water (or fill to 1.5 inches from the top of an 8 oz bottle).
2.2. Apply Acidifier 2.0 to rinse off residual Degreaser 2.2, then brush and extract with a towel until clean.
2.3. Leave Acidifier 2.0 on the leather for 3 to 30 minutes to neutralize alkaline exposure, preventing bleeding, browning, or tackiness issues.
2.4. Test for a healthy, squeaky-clean feel to confirm the leather is ready for further cleaning or other specialized treatments.
3. Cleaning
3.1. Mix Cleaner 3.8 concentrate at a 1:64 ratio with 224 g of distilled water (or fill to 1.5 inches from the top of an 8 oz bottle).
3.2. Apply Cleaner 3.8, brush gently, and extract with a towel, folding and changing sides until the towel shows clean. Follow up with rinsing.
4. Rinsing
4.1. Mix Rinse 3.0 concentrate at a 1:80 ratio with 224 g of distilled water (or fill to 1.5 inches from the top of an 8 oz bottle).
4.2. Apply Rinse 3.0, brush gently, and extract with a towel, folding and changing sides until the towel shows clean and the leather feels squeaky. Proceed to hydration.
5. Hydrating
5.1. Mix Hydrator 3.3 concentrate at a 1:25 ratio with 218 g of distilled water (or fill to 1.5 inches from the top of an 8 oz bottle).
5.2. Apply Hydrator 3.3 with Brush 1, ensuring even distribution and absorption into the leather structure.
5.3. Once the leather appears evenly hydrated, perform staking, massaging, and flexing to restore its dimension. The leather is now ready for fatliquoring.
6. Fatliquoring
6.1. Mix Fatliquor 5.0 concentrate at a 1:5 ratio with 189 g of distilled water (or fill to 1.5 inches from the top of an 8 oz bottle).
6.2. Apply Fatliquor 5.0, brush to distribute evenly, and allow absorption into the leather structure.
6.3. Reapply after each evaporation cycle until the leather takes no more. Let it dry slowly, working any residue into the leather with Hydrator 3.3 until clear, then allow slow drying again.
6.4. Before the leather is almost dry, perform staking, massaging, or flexing to enhance softness.
6.5. Reduce any darkening by stretching the leather with a tablespoon or using Razor 60. The leather is now ready for topcoat refinishing.
7. Topcoating
7.1. Mix Gloss 76 concentrate at a 1:2 ratio with 152 g of distilled water (or fill to 1.5 inches from the top of an 8 oz bottle).
7.2. For the first coat, apply Gloss 76 using a lint-free towel for even coverage. Additional coats can be applied using a foam brush, roller, varnishing brush, or airbrush for a professional finish.
7.3. Allow drying between coats and lightly sand the surface with Sand 2000 between applications to ensure smoothness.
7.4. Let the topcoat cure overnight for added strength. Inspect the results before proceeding to conditioning.
8. Conditioning
8.1. Mix Protector B concentrate at a 1:19 ratio with 215 g of distilled water (or fill to 1.5 inches from the top of an 8 oz bottle).
8.2. Apply Protector B with a lint-free towel, spreading evenly. Allow it to dry.
8.3. Protector B provides a nonstick, rub-resistant layer with a buttery finish, reducing topcoat wear from friction and enhancing the leather’s durability.
8.4. Use Protector B Plus for an added leather scent.
FAQs
What is Aniline Topcoat Refinishing?
Aniline topcoat refinishing is a process that restores the protective topcoat on aniline leather, addressing wear, damage, and stains. The preparation steps vary depending on the damage severity and the condition of the topcoat. In most cases, partial or complete removal of the existing topcoat is recommended to create a stronger foundation for a smooth and even finish. The process involves the following four steps:
Step 1: Initial Degreasing and Acidification
* Begin with Degreaser 2.2, followed by Acidifier 2.0, to remove grease, oil, and other contaminants. This step ensures the leather surface is clean and pH-balanced for subsequent refinishing.
Step 2: Physical Damage Repair
* For physical damage, sanding is required to smooth the leather surface.
* If stains have darkened the leather, the topcoat may need to be shaved off entirely using Razor 60, in combination with the Hydrator 3.3 and Fatliquor 5.0 system. This helps restore the leather’s natural suppleness and pH balance while preparing it for refinishing.
Step 3: Resurfacing and Topcoat Refinishing
* Remove any remaining soiling to satisfaction, and address residual tackiness with Acidifier 2.0 to ensure the surface is pH-balanced.
* Apply the topcoat using a lint-free folding towel, foam brush, or airbrush for even distribution. Allow the topcoat to dry between coats until the desired finish is achieved.
Step 4: Final Conditioning
* Finish with an application of Protector B to reduce friction wear on the topcoat and minimize future soiling. This step imparts a soft buttery feel to the leather while extending its longevity.
What is Leather Wet Processing?
Leather wet processing is a continuous restoration system designed to rejuvenate leather while maintaining its softness, strength, and integrity. This process involves sequential specialized products to clean, condition, and restore the leather. The stages include:
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Degreasing and Acidifying:
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Begin with Degreaser 2.2, followed by Acidifier 2.0, to remove grease, oil, and other contaminants while balancing the leather's pH.
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Cleaning and Rinsing:
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Use Cleaner 3.8 to emulsify and lift soiling, followed by Rinse 3.0 to remove residues and maintain the leather's pH integrity.
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Hydrating and Fatliquoring:
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Apply Hydrator 3.3 to relax the leather, reduce tension, and prepare it for fatliquoring.
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Follow with Fatliquor 5.0 to replenish the leather's natural fat and oil content, restoring its softness, suppleness, and durability.
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Final Hydration and Drying:
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After the fatliquoring stage, Hydrator 3.3 is used again to clean up any surface residue.
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Allow the leather to dry slowly and naturally. When nearly dry, gently stretch the leather for maximum softness and strength.
By following this continuous wet processing method, leather can be effectively restored to its original pliability and appearance, ensuring long-lasting beauty and durability.
What is Leather Dry Processing?
Leather dry processing is a restoration technique focused on refining and protecting the leather surface. This method ensures a smooth finish and enhanced durability. The process involves the following steps:
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Surface Preparation:
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Stretch the leather using a tablespoon to reduce tension and refine the surface.
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Use Eraser 4 to remove residual soiling or imperfections.
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Optionally, shave wick-up surface residues using Razor 60 for a clean and smooth base.
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Topcoat Application:
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Apply the first layer of Gloss 76 using a lint-free towel for even padding.
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Follow with a preferred application method such as a hand brush, roller brush, varnishing brush, or airbrush for professional results.
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Optionally, use Sand 2000 between coatings to achieve a smoother finish. Note: Avoid sanding the leather crust directly to prevent damage.
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Final Conditioning:
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Complete the process by applying Protector B, which enhances the leather's resistance to wear and soiling. This final step imparts a soft, buttery feel while reducing friction and extending the life of the topcoat.
Following the leather dry processing method, you can achieve a refined, polished appearance with added protection for long-lasting results.
Aniline Leather Problem-Solving Matrix
How to Use the Aniline Leather Problem-Solving Matrix?
The matrix categorizes common issues with aniline leather into five groups: Soil, Stain, Odor, Finish, and Structure (listed in the left column). Corresponding recommended products are displayed across the top row. Each number within the matrix indicates the steps required to address the problem holistically.
For example:
If a leather issue involves an unknown compound that combines soil, stain, and odor, follow the sequence across the matrix, combining necessary steps from each category. The process should always conclude with
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Hydrator 3.3 to rehydrate and relax the leather.
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Fatliquor 5.0 to replenish lost fats and oils, restoring suppleness.
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Protector B conditioning the leather for ongoing durability.
This guide was last updated on January 25, 2025, by Roger Koh.
We welcome your feedback to continuously improve this manual and better address your leather care concerns.