How to Make a Leather Couch Darker

Oil Method

• 1

  Obtain a bottle of natural oil that will not damage leather. Neatsfoot oil, mink oil and olive oil are all leather-safe and will have the added benefit of conditioning the leather, which prevents cracking.

• 2

  Spray an even, light mist of the oil on the leather.

• 3

  Smooth over the leather immediately with a sponge to ensure there are no spots but an even layer of oil.

• 4

  Allow the leather to dry completely. These natural oils darken the leather, but only by a few shades at most. For drastic color change, opt for leather recoloring techniques using a leather dye.

Dye/Recolor Method

• 5

  Prep the surface of the leather by spraying on leather cleaner and wiping it away with a dry cloth.

• 6

  Make sure the leather recoloring dye you purchase is darker than your couch's current color. Spray on the leather recoloring dye, and even out the layer by smoothing it with a dry cloth.

• 7

  Wait one day before touching the couch to prevent smudges.

• 8

  Rub leather conditioning cream into the surface of the couch to replenish lost moisture and prevent future cracking.