Interior parts refresh - Testing

[NKP Garage]

We are testing some custom colors for simple DIY interior parts refresh's using PlastiDip.

First, testing a custom tan color on a 1995-1997 front center armrest. Before / after photos below. Will be testing durability on these over the next month or so.

First impressions:
* The finished result of the color is a very close match to the factory color.
* The finished texture is nice and smooth. Although if you have large scratches or blemishes in your existing piece they may still show slightly depending on the depth of the scratch.
* The feel of the finish is nice and feels like a fresh leather/vinyl, but ever so slightly more "grabby" since it is a rubberized coating.

So far so good, will report back with more updates as I get time.

 

[1973Guppie]

it looks like you just painted it? why not just get it recovered?

 

[NKP Garage]

it looks like you just painted it? why not just get it recovered?

Re-wrapping in leather/vinyl is a better choice if money is not an issue or if you have the tools and experience to do it yourself. This is meant to be an inexpensive DIY project that people can do at home with minimal experience and minimal tools. It's simply a custom tinted PlastiDip spray.

 

[Kernal]

How does it hold up to friction (from leaning your arm on it) and sweat, and is it resistant to most cleaners that might be used inside a vehicle?

 

[thatcabledude]

Don't they make a "leather repair spray" that does that? Looks slightly better and holds up really good?

I haven't used it myself, but my 4Runner had it applied on part of the driver seat and the steering wheel. Probably put on by the dealer right before I bought it. It held up for years. Don't see plasti-dip doing the same, especially on a seat.

 

[scrowley]

Cool research. This could be good for a quick fix. Also this concept of painting on a finish without recovering has a proven solution with leather dye. I have done full leather interiors including seats, door cards, etc using Leatherique products. They make leather dye for ANY color interior made. You spray the product with a hvlp gun for best results. Brushing also works. It has amazing durability as it soaks into the leather instead of being topical. They also have tons of sweet products such as leather rejuvinator, and pristine clean.

No affiliation just a crazy BMW owner. Check it out www.Leatherique.com

 

[artech]

Never mind the leather, how's it work/look on plastic? The Oak/Tan interior stuff is getting scarce!

 

[bricat]

Thanks for sharing. A great tip particulary if you are moving on your vehicle cheers Brian

 

[thatcabledude]

www.Leatherique.com

That was the stuff I was talking about. Leatherique...... couldn't think of the name. Good stuff!

 

[MoustacheMike]

Another option is the vinyl/leather spray-paints made by SEM

http://www.semproducts.com/product-catalog/flexible-coatings/classic-coat/


It's not uncommon for dealerships to use such a product to recondition worn leather & vinyl in used cars prior to putting them up for sale on the lot.