How to Patch a Tear in a White Leatherette Sofa

Leatherette refers to a material which looks and feels like leather but is actually a man-made product consisting of plastic (or paper) and cloth. It's easier to care for than upholstery, as you can simply wipe it clean rather than purchase specialty cleaners. It's also fire retardant. Certain car manufacturers use leatherette, though many consider it to be a downgrade from leather. Like most materials, it's not indestructible. However, you should be able to fix most tears yourself.

Vinyl repair kit with heating iron
Paper plate

Instructions

- 1
  Using the spatula provided, combine the ingredients in the vinyl repair kit according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- 2
  Add white pigmentation to the mixture if necessary. For some kits, the mixture will already be white, with other kits you'll need to add some pigment according to the directions on the product's package. Position the edges of the tear so that they are flat.
- 3
  Smear the mixture over the tear. Press the supplied graining paper over the designated area. Place the heating iron from the kit on top of the graining paper. This will help the material harden and solidify, forming a bond between the two sides of the rip.
- 4
  Remove the heating iron and peel off the graining paper. Allow the area to set for a couple of hours. Test the area with your finger before sitting on it. You will have fixed the tear, but the area will still be fragile.

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