Nubuck 28 is a hybrid dye technology that both penetrates as a stain and lightly colors the surface, allowing technicians to camouflage unwanted stains and color irregularities while maintaining the natural nubuck character.
Because the dye is translucent, the natural nap, texture, and tactile feel of nubuck remain visible after refinishing.
When the nubuck surface is properly prepared and free from contamination, transparent Nubuck 17 should be considered first to maintain maximum natural clarity and tactile sensation before resorting to Nubuck 28.
To reduce crocking or color bleeding, apply Fix 99 after dyeing.

Nubuck Dye Selection Guide

Choose the appropriate dye depending on the restoration objective:

Nubuck 17 – Transparent Dye

Best for color refreshing from sun fading
Maintains maximum natural clarity and softness

Nubuck 28 – Translucent Hybrid Dye

Ideal for minor color change
Camouflages light staining or uneven coloration
Provides stronger UV resistance

Nubuck 39 – Opaque Dye

Used when full coverage is required
Completely conceals stains or discoloration

Instructions

How to Apply Nubuck 28 by Airbrush Refinishing

Nubuck 28 is supplied as a concentrate and must be diluted prior to use.

Cut the concentrate with distilled water before application.
Shake well to ensure uniform dispersion.
Apply using an airbrush for professional results.
Set air pressure between 80–100 psi.
Adjust spray pattern to a cone-shaped atomization.
Increase atomization and reduce fluid feed.
Spray in light circular passes while brushing the nap without saturating the leather.
Blow dry between coats until the desired color intensity is achieved.
Work one section at a time, brushing the nap between passes.
When fully dry, brush again to restore the nubuck finger-writing effect.
Apply Fix 99 after dyeing to reduce crocking or color bleeding.

How to Prepare Nubuck for Color Refinishing

Proper preparation ensures even dye penetration and professional refinishing results.

1. Degreasing

Nubuck pH Balanced Degreaser 2.2 (Degreaser 2.2)
Removes body oils, grease, and perspiration contamination.

2. Rinsing

Nubuck Rinsing Conditioner 3.0 (Rinse3.0)
Flushes away suspended soil and cleaning residues.

3. pH Correction

Nubuck Acidifying Conditioner 2.0 (Acidifier 2.0)
Returns leather closer to its isoelectric pH, transforming a sticky or slimy feel into a healthy squeaky-clean feel.

4. Structural Relaxation

Nubuck Hydrating Conditioner 3.3 (Hydrator 3.3)
Relaxes stiffness, creases, folds, and wrinkles prior to conditioning.

5. Structural Conditioning

Nubuck Fatliquoring Conditioner 5.0 (Fatliquor 5.0)
Replenishes essential fats and oils to restore softness, flexibility, and strength.

6. Dry Preparation

Nubuck Brush 2 and Nubuck Eraser 4
Used for nap preparation and surface tension inspection.

7. Absorbency Inspection

pH Balance Surfactant 4.0 (Surfactant 4.0)
Ensures uniform wetting and absorbency prior to dye application.

What Tactile Feel Conditioning to Use After Refinishing

After dyeing and fixing the color, apply:

Nubuck Leathery Scent Conditioner S Plus

Benefits include:

Smooth non-stick tactile feel
Improved rub resistance
Restores natural nubuck finger-writing effect
Leaves a pleasant leathery scent

Updated March 10, 2026 by Roger Koh

Nubuck Translucent Hybrid Staining Dye (Nubuck 28)

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