[Complete Guide] Types of scratches that can occur on leather products and effective repair methods

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Crazy Horse Leather Shoulder Bag_Y

A 100% genuine cowhide crazy horse leather shoulder bag that will add a stylish touch to your day. You can be a reliable partner for any occasion, from business to relaxing weekends to travel. The texture deepens with each ageing, and grows along with your individuality. The ultimate choice to complete a high-quality everyday life with this one.

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Full grain leather

Full grain leather is the finest leather that uses the surface layer of leather as is. It retains the natural surface (grain) of the animal skin, making it highly strong and durable.

Scratch characteristics:

• Natural unevenness on the surface makes light scratches less noticeable
• Use it to create a beautiful patina (skinned)
• It is likely to stain if wet, but with proper care, it can become uneven in color and taste.

Representative products: Luxury wallets, belts, high quality bags, etc.

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Top grain leather

The leather is made of a thin surface of the full grain, giving it a smoother finish. The surface is uniform, making it a luxurious look.

Scratch characteristics:

• The surface is uniform, making scratches more noticeable
• Even minor scratches can be seen as a difference in color
• It is often coated with protective coating, so water stains are relatively less likely to get caught.

Representative products: Business bags, luxurious items

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Crazy Horse Leather

Crazy Horse Leather is a type of leather product known for its unique manufacturing method and beauty due to its age. This leather is made from high-quality cowhide and is processed with a rich amount of special wax. Through processing, leather has resistant to water and friction, and the more you use it, the more the surface is naturally polished, increasing its unique luster and depth.

Crazy Horse Leather is said to have been taken from the legendary American Indian warrior, Crazy Horse, but in reality, the durability and beauty of this leather increases with use, brings back memories of the image of a wild horse roaming through the wilderness.

Scratch characteristics:

• It has the characteristic of changing the color just by rubbing, and scratches give it a unique texture
• Simply rubbing with your fingers will reveal shades of color, giving you a high aging effect
• Even if it gets damaged, you can easily care for it with oil or wax
• It is water resistant, but can stain if left wet for a long time.

Representative products: Travel bags, backpacks, vintage-style items

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Suede Nubac

The leather back (suede) and leather with brushed surface (nubuck) are characterized by a soft feel to the touch.

Scratch characteristics:

• The surface is brushed, making it easy to notice scratches
• Very sensitive to water and oil, and easily stained
• It is difficult to repair scratches and stains once they have been exposed

Representative products: Casual shoes, jackets, soft bags

Canvas (canvas) products

Canvas is woven, so it is not strictly leather, but many products are combined with leather, making them highly durable and practical.

Scratch characteristics:

• It is resistant to rubbing, but is not susceptible to tearing or cutting due to sharp objects.
• It is prone to stains and dirt, and bright colors are particularly noticeable
• Some are washable, making maintenance relatively easy

Representative products: Casual bags, backpacks, tote bags

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PU leather

This is a synthetic leather made from polyurethane resin, and although it looks similar to genuine leather, its properties are very different.

Scratch characteristics:

• If the surface coating tears, the base is exposed and it is difficult to repair.
• It is likely to harden and peel off due to aging
• It is resistant to water and dirt, but is less durable than genuine leather over the long term.

Representative products: Reasonable bags, wallets, accessories

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Superficial scuffs

This is the most common type of wound and is difficult to avoid in daily use.

Main causes:

• Contact with hard objects such as keys and coins
• Rough handling and friction between bags
• Fine rubbing caused by placing on a rough surface

Tips for solutions: In many cases, maintenance with a special oil or wax will make it less noticeable. In the case of crazy hose leather, just rubbing gently with your fingers can make the color even.

Deep wounds and cuts

These scratches not only reach the surface but also the inside of the leather. It is often difficult to repair and requires specialized procedures.

Main causes:

• Contact with sharp objects
• The impact of a heavy falling
• Improper storage methods (such as placing heavy objects on top)

Tips for solutions: As a first aid, it is important to apply leather balm or something similar to prevent the scratches from spreading. However, it may require professional repair to be completely unnoticeable.

Water stains and stains

Ring stains and uneven color that occur when wet. This is particularly noticeable in leather that is not waterproof.

Main causes:

• Being exposed to rain or snow
• Accidents such as spilling drinks
• Improper drying methods when wet

Tips for solutions: If water stains occur, it is important to first absorb moisture with a clean cloth and let it dry naturally. Never dry out in direct sunlight or hot air. After drying, you can reduce color unevenness by taking care of your skin with a special cleaner or conditioner overall.

Fade and color transfer

This is a phenomenon in which the dye on the surface of the leather fades or transfers to other materials.

Main causes:

• Long exposure to direct sunlight
• Frequent friction and use
• Contact with sweat and oil
• Improper cleaning methods

Tips for solutions: Faded areas may be repaired with special dyes or color repair kits. However, it is difficult to completely restore the color to its original size, and prevention is the most effective. Regularly apply a protective cream specifically for leather to slow the color fading.

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Deformed shape and folding wrinkles

This is a phenomenon in which the shape of leather products may be distorted or deep wrinkles may occur due to repeated bending.

Main causes:

• Improper storage methods (hanging, stacking, etc.)
• Putting excess weight luggage
• Repeated folding in the same place
• Lack of humidity control

Tips for solutions: To prevent it from losing its shape, it is important to keep its shape when not in use (such as paper or a special bag pillow). For any wrinkles that have already occurred, you can apply leather conditioner and then carefully warm it with a low-temperature iron or hair dryer, but caution is required as it may damage the leather.

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How to repair mild wounds at home

Superficial scuffs and small scratches are often easily repaired at home.

What you need:

• Leather cleaner
• Leather conditioner or leather balm
• Soft cloth (microfiber, etc.)
• Dye that matches the color of the leather (if necessary)

Repair procedure:

1. cleaning: First, gently remove dirt around scratches using a leather-specific cleaner.
2. conditioning: Remove leather conditioner or balm on your fingertips or soft cloth and gently apply it to scratches. Especially with crazy hose leather, the shades of the color can be evenly shading even if you rub it with your fingers.
3. Drying and polishing: Once the conditioner has penetrated, gently polish it with another clean cloth.
4. Color repair (if required): If the color is peeling off, use a dye that matches the color of the leather to repair it.

Effective points: For mild wounds, overall care can make the wound less noticeable. If you only take care of it in part, the difference in color and luster from the surrounding area may be noticeable.

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How to deal with moderate wounds

More careful attention is required for moderate damage such as slightly deep scratches, scuffs, and small cracks.

What you need:

• Items required to repair mild wounds mentioned above
• Leather Filler (Leather Filler)
• Fine sandpaper (very finer than 1000)
• Leather finishing agent

Repair procedure:

1. cleaning: Carefully clean the area around the wound.
2. Applying leather filler: Apply leather filler that matches the color of the leather to your skin for deep scratches and cracks.
3. Drying: Allow the filler to dry completely (follow the product instructions).
4. Sanding: It is a very fine sandpaper and carefully polish the filler to smooth connection with the surrounding leather.
5. Coloring: If necessary, adjust the color with a dye that matches the color of the leather.
6. Finishing: Protects with a leather-specific finishing agent to give it a glossy finish.

Note: If you are doing it for the first time, we recommend testing in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the damaged area.

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First aid for severe wounds

Professional repair is ideal for severe damage such as deep cuts and large peeling, but the following methods are effective as first aid up until then:

First Aid Procedure:

1. Cleaning and drying: Cleanse and dry the wound completely.
2. Leather protection: Apply leather balm and conditioner around the scratches to prevent drying out or further damage to the leather.
3. Usage restrictions: Until repair, refrain from using the product or use it carefully to avoid straining the wound.

Important points: Self-repairing of severe wounds is difficult and can be further exacerbated by inappropriate treatment. We recommend consulting with a professional as soon as possible.

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Cases to ask a professional

If you have any of the following cases, we recommend that you contact a professional leather repair professional rather than self-repair:

• Deep cuts and tears
• Large areas of color fading and fading
• Structural damage (such as damage to the base of the handle)
• Expensive leather products and items with a strong attachment

Tips for choosing an expert: When requesting repairs for leather products, it is important to choose a professional who is well-versed in the type of leather and product. Check repair examples and reviews in advance and ask a trusted technician.

Crazy Horse Leather Scratch Features

Crazy Horse Leather develops its unique texture the more you use it. However, this processing also has the property of making it more susceptible to scratches during daily use.

Crazy Horse Leather Scratch Features:

• "Scratches" as color changes: The color changes when rubbed, so what is considered a "scratch" in normal leather gives it a unique texture in crazy hose leather.
• Self-healing: Light scratches have self-healing properties that allow for even color just by rubbing them with your fingers.
• Some of the changes over time: Scratches and scuffs caused by use often become more arousing as aging (patina).
• Wax layer characteristics: The wax layer on the surface moves with friction, which causes a bright color to appear when rubbed, and has the characteristic of returning to its original color over time.

The "scratches" of crazy horse leather often accept the individuality of the product, leading to enjoying the innate charm of this leather.

Daily maintenance methods

Crazy Horse Leather can last for a long time with proper maintenance.

Basic maintenance steps:

1. cleaning: Use a soft cloth to gently wipe off dirt and dust on the leather surface. At this stage, do not use water or other liquids and keep the leather surface dry.
2. Applying oil or wax: Take an appropriate amount of special oil or wax for crazy hose leather in your hand, spread it evenly over the fabric, then lightly apply it to the area where the scratches are. During this process, oil or wax penetrates deep into the leather, making scratches less noticeable.
3. Remove excess oil: After applying oil or wax, gently wipe off any excess oil on the surface using another dry, soft cloth. This keeps the leather surface clean and gives it a glossy finish.
4. Dry: Keep leather products in a well-ventilated place until the oil or wax is completely dry. It is important to avoid direct sunlight and let it dry naturally.

The importance of regular care: Depending on the frequency of use, crazy hose leather products can be maintained by regular care every 3 to 6 months, and can be used to maintain their beauty and blend in with a natural texture even if they get scratched.

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Deep wound repair techniques

Deep scratches, cuts, and large scuffs on crazy horse leather require a more careful repair approach.

Deep wound repair procedure:

1. Detailed inspection: Check the depth and extent of the scratches. Determine if the leather fibers are broken.
2. cleaning: Carefully clean the wounds and their surroundings. It completely removes dust and dirt.
3. Special oil penetration: It thoroughly penetrates oil and wax specifically for crazy hose leather into the inside of the wound. This will restore the leather's flexibility and make scratches less likely to open.
4. Use filler as needed: For very deep scratches or cuts, use leather filler carefully that matches the leather color.
5. Overall conditioning: After repair, oil or wax is applied throughout the product to even out the color and texture.
6. Natural drying: After treatment, make sure to dry naturally and avoid forced drying.

Note: Crazy Horse Leather has a unique texture, so even after repairs, the difference in color and texture from the surrounding area will not completely disappear. Be aware that as you use it over time, it will gradually become more familiar.

Preventive treatment before use

Preventive treatments taken before using new leather products will greatly affect the lifespan of the product.

Basic Preventive Treatment Procedures:

1. Initial cleaning: Even if it is new, there may be dust and dirt that is attached to the product during the manufacturing process. Wipe lightly with a soft cloth.
2. conditioning: Apply a thin layer of leather-specific conditioner all over to nourish the leather. This keeps the leather flexible and prevents cracks from drying out.
3. Waterproofing: Protect your leather from water and dirt using a waterproof spray specifically for leather. This is especially essential before seasons with heavy rain and snow.
4. Drying: After each treatment, dry the leather products thoroughly in a well-ventilated area.

Notes on different leather types:

• Full grain leather Crazy Horse Leather: Oil and wax-based protectors are suitable.
• Suede Nubuck: Use a special waterproof spray for brushed leather and use a brush to adjust the naps.
• Canvas Products: Fabric waterproof spray is effective.
• PU leather: It is basically waterproof, but it is effective to protect the seams and edges.

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Daily handling

Daily use is also important to make leather products last longer.

Notes on daily use:

• Avoid excessive weight: Putting excessively heavy items in a bag or backpack can put stress on the seams and cause them to lose their shape.
• Response to water: If it gets wet in rain or something, immediately wipe off the moisture with a soft cloth and let it dry naturally. Avoid drying using a heat source such as a hair dryer.
• Minimize friction: Avoid friction with rough surfaces and other luggage, and be careful when using in environments that are prone to scratches (such as sandy beaches).
• Avoid direct sunlight: Exposing it to direct sunlight for a long time will cause the leather to dry out and fade.
• Regular wipes: After use, lightly wipe the surface with a soft cloth to remove dirt and moisture.

Effective cleaning methods: For regular care, we recommend gently wipe it with a leather cleaner once a month, then apply conditioner. This keeps the leather flexible and makes small scratches less noticeable.

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Proper storage method

Storage methods when not in use can also greatly affect the lifespan of leather products.

Ideal storage conditions:

• Breathable location: Places that are trapped in moisture can cause mold.
• Avoid direct sunlight: Prevents fading and drying of the leather.
• Suitable temperature and humidity: Avoid extreme high temperatures, low temperatures and high humidity.
• Maintain shape: Bags and backpacks can be kept in shape by placing soft paper or a special bag pillow inside.
• Don't hang: Bags with handles in particular can cause deformation if hanged for a long period of time.
• Using storage bags: A breathable fabric storage bag provides protection from dust.

Preparation for long-term storage: If not used for a long period of time, thoroughly clean and apply a lightly conditioner before storing. This makes the leather less likely to dry out.

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