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How to Antique Leather

With a little work, anyone has the ability to turn new leather into an antique-finished piece. Acrylic leather stains are good for larger projects, such as coats or couches, because of their liquid form. Antique finishes also come in paste form, but these tend to streak more. Paste finishes do, however, produce a rich color not matched by liquid finishes. Whatever form you choose, unique antiqued leather piece is the ultimate reward.

Things You'll Need

Spray bottle
Sponge
Clean rags
Antiquing finishing product (liquid or paste)
Fine sandpaper or steel wool
Neatsfoot oil
Sheep's wool

Instructions

How to Antique Leather
- 1
  Lightly spray the leather with water to open the grain and pores for absorption of the antiquing product.
- 2
  With a sponge, apply the antique stain or paste to the leather in a circular motion to reduce streaks. Build up layers if a darker color is desired. Wait for each application to dry, which takes about 30 minutes.
- 3
  Twist, fold and roll to distress the leather. This will add cracks and creases to the leather for a worn look. Highlight areas that look worn by rubbing the leather with fine sandpaper or steel wool. Wipe away debris from distressing with a clean cloth.
- 4
  Using a cloth, work the neatsfoot oil into the leather, which darkens the cracks and crevices. Wipe over with a clean rag, removing any excess oil.
- 5
  Using sheep̵7;s wool, buff the piece to to a semi-gloss sheen.

Antiquing