How to Age a New Leather Couch

Abrade the surface of the couch with a textured sponge and fine-grit sandpaper. Accelerate this process by splashing nail polish remover on the surface prior to abrading it.

Blow hot air over the leather with a hair dryer. Start on the low setting to avoid burning the couch and move up to high heat once you see how quickly the couch becomes distressed. Try varying the distance that you hold the dryer from the surface of the couch to give the couch added dimension.

Check the weather forecast. Wait for a three-day period of clear skies and place the couch outside in a place where it will get plenty of direct sunlight. This will fade the color slightly. Repeat until the couch has the desired patina. Make sure to wipe down the couch before you bring it back in and check it carefully for any wasp's nests or animal infestations.

Dip a paintbrush into fabric paint the color of mud or dirt. Flick the paint over the surface of the couch to simulate grime or mud spots and allow it to dry completely before sitting on the couch.

Apply a thin layer of leather balm to the couch surface and wipe off immediately with a rag. This sounds like a leather conditioner, but it is actually a microcrystalline wax in an alcohol solution. The crystals and the wax work to soften the leather while also giving it a worn look.

Beat the couch with a belt that has a metal buckle. The impact of the buckle will create pits, minor tears and surface scratches.