Rub-off is typically caused by wax, silicone, or oil-based conditioning products, which leave a residue that inhibits the pigment’s ability to bond.
Did you follow the best practices for changing color? Did you thoroughly clean? Did you test the color’s adhesion?
If you need to re-prep the surface, work with a stronger solvent like lacquer or paint thinner. Use a toothbrush or nail brush, particularly to clean the deeper creases and recesses of the grain. Only strip the areas that are wearing poorly; recall the old adage, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Color rubbing off can also be caused by:
- areas that are saturated with body oil;
- worn or damaged areas that need repair before being recolored;
- interior padding or foam that has lost its plushness and/or lots of wrinkles and folds in the upholstery; this results in more movement and stress upon the leather or vinyl and therefore your new finish;
- pieces that receive a lot of contact with chemicals, liquids or dog claws;
- or pieces made with bonded, polyurethane, or faux leather which resist all coatings.
Touch-up is easy and par for the course with a dramatic change of color. Take care to apply thin coats and prevent the color from pooling in creases or deeper recesses of the grain.