The finest water based polyurethane leather dye and leather paint on the planet!

Why Do We Produce Polyurethane Dyes and Color Coats Instead of Acrylics?

The answer lies in the superior advantages of polyurethane:

• Industry Standard: Tanneries worldwide use water-based polyurethanes to finish original leathers for furniture, automotive interiors, clothing, and nearly all pigmented leather products. Polyurethane is the preferred choice for modern tanning processes.
• Deeper Penetration: Unlike acrylics, polyurethane penetrates deeper into the leather, ensuring a more permanent and long-lasting color that won’t crack or peel over time.
• Natural Look and Feel: Polyurethane provides a softer, more natural appearance and texture to the leather, regardless of the color applied. It maintains the leather’s inherent beauty and suppleness.
• Ease of Application: Polyurethane is more forgiving and easier to work with, making it ideal for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

The Difference Between Leather Dyes and Leather Color Coatings (Paint)

There’s a lot of confusion surrounding leather dyes and leather color coatings (often referred to as leather paint). Here’s a quick breakdown:

Leather Dye

What It Is: A coloring material designed to penetrate raw, unfinished, or unsealed leather.
Purpose: To deeply absorb into the leather, creating a rich, even color.
Application: Can be left as-is or sealed/semi-sealed depending on the intended use.
Best For: Unfinished leathers like Semi-Aniline, Suede, or NuBuck.

Leather Color Coatings (Paint)

What It Is: A surface-level coating that provides a colored finish.
Purpose: To remain primarily on the leather’s surface, creating a pigmented layer.
Application: The leather’s natural color remains underneath, visible on the backside.
Best For: Finished leathers where a surface coating is needed for restoration or customization.

The Truth About “Aniline Dyed” Leather:

Many furniture manufacturers label their products as “aniline dyed,” but this term refers more to the process than the materials used. In true aniline dyeing, the entire raw hide is dipped into a vat of dye, allowing the color to absorb completely through the leather. Depending on the intended use, the leather may be left unsealed, sealed, or even coated with a finish.

However, aniline dyes are only necessary during refinishing or restoration when working with unfinished leathers like Semi-Aniline, Suede, or NuBuck. For all other types of leather, leather color coatings (paint) are used to create a surface-level finish.

For information on determining your particular leather type, CLICK HERE

Why Choose Leather Magic!™?

At Leather Magic!, we manufacture both leather dyes and leather color coatings because each serves a unique purpose. Whether you’re repairing automotive upholstery, restoring a leather couch or customizing a handbag, we have the right product for your project.

Not sure which product is right for your leather?Click Here to determine your leather type and find the perfect solution.