|
|
|
 Refinishing Vinyl and other Leather Imitations |
|
| Unlike leather, which is a natural organic product, vinyl and other imitations are of chemical composition. Impregnated with plasticizers, they generally remain supple for quite a long time. When the plasticizers eventually migrate into the atmosphere, there is nothing that can be done to re-soften these materials. Surface blemishes such as rips or tears and holes can be repaired in the same manner as with leather, and they can be refinished. |
|
| For best results when recoloring vinyl, use the same color as on the original finish. |
|
| Use our SUPER CLEANER to clean the vinyl surface before applying SURFLEX Flexible Surface Colorant. Wash and rinse thoroughly per label instructions. Let the surface dry thoroughly before proceeding with the coloring. (The use of lacquer thinner or any strong solvent to clean vinyl IS NOT recommended. These cleaners have a tendency to dissolve or “melt” the vinyl surface, leaving it sticky and unworkable.) |
|
| After the vinyl surface is clean and dry, sand lightly with either very fine sandpaper or steel wool. Remove all residue from the surface with a Tack Cloth or similar product. Since vinyl is nonporous, it is imperative that no residue is left on the surface when you apply SURFLEX. Once prepared in this manner, the recoloring procedure is the same as for leather. Begin in an inconspicuous area such as a seat back or bottom and apply a thin coat of SURFLEX Flexible Surface Colorant, concentrating on even application rather than good coverage. To avoid leaving brush marks, do not re-stroke partially dried areas. As soon as the first coat is dry to the touch, a second coat can be applied. If necessary, touch up with a third coat. Use varied brush strokes (half-circles, cross-hatches, etc.) to eliminate any brush-mark patterns. |
|
| When spraying, use about 25 p.s.i. air pressure, a narrow fan, and apply a full wet first coat; avoid runs or puddles. If necessary, when dry apply subsequent coat(s) for good color coverage. Clean equipment with warm, soapy water. |
|
| SURFLEX Flexible Surface Colorant dries for use within 24 hours and cures completely in about 6 weeks, after which time the new SURFLEX finished surface can be cleaned with soap and water or cleaning preparations intended for such use. |
|
