Do not trust images or screens when trying to match the color of leather, vinyl and other textiles. Except for black or stark white (which are universal), a physical sample is needed is to accurately assess color.
An approximate match can be obtained by comparing color swatches to the leather or vinyl upholstery.
Note that the texture or grain of a material can affect the appearance of color. Take this example of two Cognac swatches. The same bottle was used to color two different pieces of scrap leather. Full coverage was achieved after three coats. Yet, the smoother-grained leather looks more brown. The more pebbly leather looks brighter, more orange.
Thus, for an exact match, colors must be tested directly on the material and examined from various angles.
Local leather repair artisans can match the color and restore your leather and vinyl, but the cost will range anywhere from US$200 – US$2000.
Alternatively, send us a sample of your leather or vinyl (like a cushion case, head rest, or piece of material), and we’ll test our colors free of charge. If none are a suitable match, we can customize your color for a fee. Find a sample to send, and learn more here.
Consider these factors in matching your color:
- Every manufacturer has their own version of mahogany or ivory, for example. Don’t assume the color will match because the name is the same.
- Colors display differently on screens and photographs. Do not accept a color matched from an image.
- Do you need an exact match to touch-up a small area? Or does the whole piece need refinishing, in which case a similar but inexact color will do?
- Swatches cut from hidden areas (under cushions or the frame) may not match exposed areas that otherwise appear unfaded. If a swatch doesn’t match the rest of the piece, neither will the color. This means you will have to restore the entire piece. To avoid this, send a different sample (the entire cushion case), or consider one of our standard colors.
Custom Color Matching Service
We formulate a unique color and keep a sample on file. No machines – only Jane’s expert eyes – are employed. Turnaround time is swift, typically 1-3 business days, though it may take a week if many are already in the queue.
Our reviews and this video show how pleased others have been with this service.
Do you have Pantone color fan decks to use as a color guide for a color match? I have a 2020 Robalo boat which has a lot of sun damage. The color I need (in addition to Marine White) is what I would call Seafoam Green; however, this is much different vs. your version of Seafoam Green, which is much darker.
Also, the green vinyl is not smooth. it has a microtexture to it. This causes a lot of issues with moisture retention, making black mold a problem. Is your wipe-on color low enough in viscosity to retain that texture, or woukd it possibly fill in the texture?
Lastly, what is the cost & turn-around time for a color match? I would like to order this week if possible.
thank you!
Rob Davis
Pantone colors are used to match digital and print (ink) colors, water-based paints. Sending a sample of the vinyl is best for matching. See here. Presently there is no lead time on customization. The color is the viscosity of milk. It does not fill in the texture except after many coats.
Thank you, Lesandre,
I have no way to send a sample. Since you’re matching visually, a coated Pantone book is perfectly acceptable for this purpose. BTW…I’ve been in the ink & paint industry since 1986 and I am currently the Color Lab manager for a screen & pad ink lab.
Rob
We’d have to purchase a Pantone deck to fulfill your request. Perhaps you can mail a paint chip or give us a Sherwin Williams chip number? Even so, the upholsterer got the vinyl on these cushions and panels, which means you can either send a small component or deconstruct something and trim some from where it has been stapled to the frame. A physical sample of the material is always better than a paint chip that your eye perceives as a match but may not actually be.
I have a LaZboy color code FL941953 for a light grey leather recliner. Can you match that color?
We can match the color, but the code is Greek to us. We need a physical sample mailed.
I have a 2011 Crest 230 Classic LE and looking to purchase your product but I am not able to match the color. I ordered 3 sample swatches and they are not even close. Sand is close. Ivory is way too light and Camel is too dark/brown. This is for the top part of the cushion that has turned dry and darker brown from the black cover that was used. This is for the darker material of the interior.
Hi!
How much do I need to order of each product for sofa and chair and ottoman in one color ans two recliners in another color?
I’d do a 16 oz. for the set and 8 or 16 oz. for the two recliners. See here about estimating quantity.
I took pictures of my couches I would like 2 color sample walnut and expresso
I have a Bradington-Young Capital Brown Chippendale Leather manual recliner. Could you recommend one of your color restorers. The chair is a dark brown or chocolate color and the seating areas have faded after just two years of use.
Mahogany & Espresso are our darkest browns. Tobacco and Walnut are a step up from those. All our colors can be mixed to create your own.
Hi there,
I think your product might work for me. I have almost new vinyl couch cushions that are stained by people wearing suntan lotion and is rubbing into the vinyl. I would like to try and match the existing tan color but do not have an actual piece of the vinyl to send to you. What is the best way for me to match the color before I purchase the product?
Thank you,
Cheri
You can order swatches of our colors, but sending a sample is the most direct solution. Try pulling staples from the frame and trimming a piece from there. A paint chip from a hardware store can also be sent but often gets an inexact result. Send your sample with this form.
Hi I have purchased a dark red leather wing chair I would like more of a burgundy tuscan red color Can I mix burgundy with some cherrywood to get color I want . What would be ratio? Your burgundy color a bit too blue need to be somewhat warmer. Any suggestions? I think Mahogany too dark ?
Yes, you can mix colors, but burgundies / reds often need customization. We need you to mail a sample and pay a fee for us to see what ratio of grab-n-go colors would come closest or customize. More info about our matching services is here.
I got brown h as it dye on a blue leather couch.
Incredibly stupid.
Trying to save money..
Yeah right.
Help me please
Try removing the brown dye with alcohol. The most direct solution is to send us a sample of the leather. We’ll advise you if one of our blues will work. If not, we can customize for a fee.
i bought rub n restore off of Pinterest didnt realize i needed to purchase a color with it. I thought i could rub the clear on my sun faded couch and it would be ok like the video said. Can i try that and then put color over that if i dont like the look? thank u
Yep! The Clear Prep+Finish™ acts as a primer on rough or worn leather too. It won’t correct sunfading (loss of pigment), but you’re fine adding color later.