How do you take an Absorbency Test?Updated 7 months ago
There are two types of leather: absorbent and non-absorbent. Before using Clyde’s Leather Recoloring Balm, you need to test the absorbency of your leather. Here’s how it works.
Place a few droplets of water on the surface of the leather, preferably somewhere that has no damage. If the water is absorbed into the leather, and the color of the leather surface darkens, this means your leather is absorbent.
If the water sits on top of the surface of the leather, this means your leather is non-absorbent.
For Non-Absorbent leather:
- This is normal! It means the manufacturer's finish is still on your leather. To fix this:
- 1. Use Clyde's Leather Prep and Deglaze to strip the finish. Dab cotton balls in the solution and rub in circular motions until the area becomes absorbent. Wear gloves and avoid skin contact.
- 2. Repeat the absorbency test. If droplets are absorbed, your leather is ready.
- Note: Apply the deglazing solution only where needed. For small touch-ups, treat the damaged area. For a full-color change, deglaze the entire surface until absorbent.
For Absorbent leather:
- Lucky you! The manufacturer's original leather finish has worn off or was never applied. You can proceed to step 3.