How to Restore a Leather Top on Antique Furniture

Antique furniture with leather tops and accents can be an exciting find for those people who enjoy searching through tag sales, auctions and antique shops. Sadly, many quality pieces will be passed over simply because the leather is dirty, dusty or in mild disrepair. While even replacing the leather on antique furniture may be worth it if the price is low enough, it is often not required. A good cleaning and conditioning may be all it takes to restore your find and make it look nearly new.

Hide glue
Padded weight
Soft cotton cloths
Saddle soap
Leather conditioner

Instructions

- 1
  Locate any areas of the leather that are lifting or peeling. Carefully apply hide glue to the underside of the leather and press it back into place. Use padded weight to hold down the leather as it dries.
- 2
  Allow any glue to dry completely. Dampen a very soft cloth and lather it moderately with mild saddle soap. Buff the soap onto the leather in a circular motion.
- 3
  Rinse the cloth well and wipe away any soap residue on the leather. Apply leather conditioner to the leather with a dry, soft cotton cloth. Buff the conditioner on just as you did the soap.
- 4
  Wait 15 to 20 minutes. Wipe away any conditioner still sitting on the surface with a final clean, soft cloth. Clean and condition the leather regularly to extend its life.

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