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Leather repair faq page 

 Frequently Asked Questions
Aren't all repair kits just about the same?
Actually, no they're not.  There are kits that are water base and kits that are solvent base.  Some require a clear top coat for the color coat to cure.  While others do not. In our opinion, the coatings that are water base and do not require a clear top coat to cure are the best. Our Color-Flex is water base and does NOT require a clear top coat to cure.  DO NOT use a solvent base coating on leather...it will surely crack!

Repair compounds vary greatly.  Some need to be sanded which we DON'T recommend. Sanding a repair will weaken it and it will also add unwanted particles to your repair which can be difficult to get out.  Our repair compound is water based and does not require sanding. It goes on like soft margarine on bread.  It is easily smoothed out by wiping over the surface with an alcohol pad.  It couldn't be easier.  Our kits include 600 grit sandpaper which is a "finishing" sandpaper used to remove any particles that might have accidentally fallen into the Color Flex before it's dry.  Sand only after the Color Flex is completely dry.
Is it possible that by using you repair kit that I might actually ruin my item?
Absolutely not!  We've read some "reviews" that falsely claim that our products have "destroyed" their car seat etc.  This is simply not possible.  The worst that can happen is applying too much of either the repair compound or Color Flex.  Both can be removed by using lacquer thinner.  Yes, it's messy job, but it will remove our products.  Once removed you can try again, this time using less of the product.  If you choose not to continue, you'll need to condition the leather because the lacquer thinner will also remove the oil in the leather making it look like it has a film or a milky look to it.  A good conditioning will take care of that.
 
What's the two step process I've read about elsewhere?
There is a misconception around the Internet that the "so-called" two step process is the best.  Most of this information is coming from amateurs so please consider the source if you take their advice. 

All that really means is that you apply a clear coat on top of the color.  What they don't understand, is that our Color Flex is a combination of tint base (the actual color) mixed with a clear coat.  The "top coat" is already part of the Color Flex.  You definitely can apply a clear top coat if you'd like.  It will give added durability.  Clear Coat is available in Satin, Matte and High Gloss.  If the item you are repairing has a sheen other than Satin, you'll need to top coat it with either the Matte or High Gloss to achieve the proper sheen.
 
How much area will one bottle of Color-Flex or repair compound cover?
Honestly, it's really difficult to estimate how much of an area a product will cover. There are too many variables, such as how many applications are required to cover completely, how heavy an application is needed etc. Some tint bases are not as opaque as others therefore additional applications might be required. We have seen claims that an 8 oz. bottle of color will cover 48 square feet, in our opinion, that's a bit of a stretch. A good estimate would be, a 6 oz. bottle should easily cover about 18 sq. ft. or one complete front seat of a car with two coats or one average size chair.  99% of our customers are satisfied with the amount of products contained in just one of our kits.  You can always order additional bottles it you think you'll need more than this.
What is Magic Mender repair compound?
Magic Mender repair compound is a water based compound paste. It dries naturally, or drying time can be accelerated by using a blow dryer.  When dry, it permanently adheres to leather and vinyl.  Our repair compound is extremely durable and remains soft and flexible, giving your repair the natural feel and appearance of the original surface.  Cleans up with water.
What is Color-Flex?
Color-Flex is water based specialty finish that dries quickly and feels like the original surface.  Very similar to the new finish coatings that furniture, clothing and automotive manufacturers are now using on their leather. When applied properly, Color-Flex dries into a flexible satin finish in about 15 minutes. Color-Flex can be applied with a foam brush, a sprayer, or it can wiped on.  It is extremely durable and remains soft and flexible.  Color-Flex is applied as the color finish top coat over your repair.  Cleans up with water.
What is Spray Grain?
Spray Grain is a  water base simulated texture spray.  Repairs don't require this, but if you simply want to have a textured effect, you would use Spray Grain prior to applying Color-Flex.  Spray Grain gives a pebbly effect, and takes away the smooth appearance.
Will I need a Clear Coat?
Not necessarily. If you like a satin finish, you're all set. If the original surface has a dull finish or if it has a high gloss finish, you will then need to purchase our Matte (dull) Clear, or our High Gloss Clear to achieve the best results.  Clear Coat can also be applied as a top coat for added durability.
How long will it take to complete a repair?
The average repair takes about an hour from start to finish. It depends upon the environmental conditions in which you are working. We recommend that you work in a well lit area, preferably outside. The ideal temperature would be between 75o - 85o . The warmer the conditions the faster Magic Mender Repair Compound will cure and the Color-Flex will dry. If it is cold, you can accelerate the drying process by using a blow dryer. You will be able to use your repaired item as soon as it is dry, however, complete curing takes about 24 hours.
Are these repairs permanent?
Yes. Magic Mender repair compound is formulated to bond to leather and vinyl. Our Color-Flex, will wear just the same as the original color coating. Just how long it will last, depends on how much wear is inflicted upon the repair, and how well you take care of the item.

Please note, it's imperative that the surface you start with is clean...really clean. Otherwise you run the risk of improper adhesion and you may find that our products won't adhere to the surface like they should.  Clean first with liquid soap and water. Really scrub and rinse with clean water, followed by a good cleaning with Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol).
Will I really get professional results?
You bet you will!  The repair compound and Color-Flex that comes with your kit, are the exact same products that we use in our daily repair business.  We have been using them for years, with fabulous results.   As long as you follow the included instructions, you'll obtain the same results that we do --- professional ! 
*These kits are intended for several small repairs, not major projects, like changing the entire color of an auto interior, that kind of job is still best left to the pros. 
How easy is easy?
Our kits are incredibly easy to use. Really! Even if you make a mistake on your first try...not to worry! The worst mistake you could make would be applying too much repair compound. That's easily remedied by simply wiping the surface with the alcohol pad until it is smooth. Because we mix the colors for you, you don't have to worry about trying to get it right by mixing them yourself. Even though we do this daily, it's still the most difficult step of leather & vinyl repair.
Can I change the color of my shoes,  furniture or car interior?
Yes you can on small items like shoes, but we don't recommend doing this on larger items like furniture unless you have access to an air compressor and a spray gun.  Aerosol sprayers are just fine for smaller areas or for blending, but they don't produce the air pressure needed to cover a large item, especially if you are attempting to change color.  Also the cleaning process is a bit more involved.
Special cleaners or conditioners afterward?
No special cleaners or conditioner are required after you make your repairs, however you should not use any cleaner that contains ammonia or solvents. If you use a cleaner with a solvent, it can possibly have a chemical reaction with the Color Flex that may soften it leaving it feeling tacky to the touch.  We recommend that you only use our Cleaner/Conditioner or liquid soap and water for cleaning. 

Do not use vinyl conditioners on leather or any products that contain silicone.
What if I need help?
If you are having difficulties, please let us know so we can help. The odds are, you won't need it! We're telling you the truth when we say that these kits are incredibly easy to use. Don't hesitate to contact us if you need help.


 
 
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