How do you make shiny leather shoes matte?

To make shiny leather shoes matte, you typically need to remove the existing glossy finish using a leather deglazer and then apply a matte-specific finish such as a carnauba cream or a beeswax-based product. This process transforms the high-shine surface into a more subdued, non-reflective look.

Understanding the Process

Shiny leather shoes often have a top coat or finish that provides their characteristic gloss. To achieve a matte appearance, this glossy layer must first be carefully removed. A leather deglazer is specifically designed to strip away this surface finish without damaging the leather beneath. Once the original finish is gone, the leather is ready to accept a new, matte-enhancing product that also conditions the material.

Step-by-Step Guide to Matting Leather Shoes

Achieving a matte finish on your shiny leather shoes involves a careful, multi-step process.

Materials You'll Need

Before you begin, gather the following supplies:

• Leather Deglazer: A specialized chemical solution that removes existing finishes from leather.
• Clean, Lint-Free Cloths: Several soft cloths for application and buffing.
• Cotton Swabs or Applicators: For detailed areas.
• Protective Gloves: To protect your hands from chemicals.
• Ventilated Area: Essential for working with deglazer due to fumes.
• Matte Finish Product: Such as a high-quality Carnauba Cream or a Beeswax Leather Finish.
• Soft Brush or Applicator: For applying the new matte finish.

The Deglazing Process

This is the crucial first step where the glossy finish is removed.

1. Preparation: Ensure your shoes are clean and dry. Remove any laces. Work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors or near an open window, and wear protective gloves.
2. Patch Test: Apply a tiny amount of leather deglazer to an inconspicuous area of the shoe (e.g., inside the tongue or a small hidden spot). Wait a few minutes to ensure it doesn't cause any undesirable discoloration or damage to your specific type of leather.
3. Application: Moisten a clean, lint-free cloth or cotton swab with the leather deglazer. Gently and evenly wipe down the surface of the shoe, applying light pressure. The deglazer will begin to take the glossy finish off the leather. Work in small sections, changing to a clean part of the cloth as it becomes saturated with the removed finish. You will notice the high shine diminishing. Be thorough but avoid over-saturating the leather.
4. Drying: Once you've removed the glossy finish from the entire shoe, allow the leather to dry completely. It will likely appear dull and somewhat dry at this stage, which is normal.

Applying the Matte Finish

After deglazing, the leather needs to be reconditioned and given its new matte appearance.

1. Product Selection: Choose a matte finish product. Carnauba cream or a beeswax type finish are excellent choices, as they can help give the leather a more matte look and also soften it up a little. These natural finishes provide a durable, low-sheen protective layer.
2. Application: Apply a thin, even layer of your chosen matte finish product to the leather using a soft brush, cloth, or applicator. Work in circular motions, ensuring the product is evenly distributed across the entire surface.
3. Drying/Curing: Allow the product to dry and cure according to the manufacturer's instructions. This might take several hours. Avoid handling the shoes during this time.
4. Gentle Buffing (Optional): If desired, you can gently buff the shoes with a clean, soft cloth after the finish has cured. Be very gentle, as aggressive buffing can inadvertently reintroduce some shine. The goal is to achieve a uniform matte appearance.

Important Considerations for a Lasting Matte Finish

Achieving and maintaining a matte finish requires attention to detail and ongoing care.

Leather Type Matters

The success of this process can depend on the type of leather. Full-grain and top-grain leathers generally respond well. Corrected grain or highly processed leathers with thick plasticized coatings might be more challenging, as their "finish" is often an inherent part of the leather's surface.

Test First

Always perform a patch test with both the deglazer and the matte finish product on an inconspicuous area before applying them to the entire shoe. This prevents irreversible damage.

Maintenance

To maintain the matte look, avoid using traditional shiny shoe polishes. Instead, reapply your chosen carnauba cream or beeswax finish periodically as needed to refresh the matte appearance and condition the leather. Clean your shoes regularly with a damp cloth and mild leather cleaner, avoiding harsh chemicals that could strip the new finish.

Permanent Change

Be aware that deglazing is a permanent process. Once the original finish is removed, it cannot be easily restored. Proceed with caution and confidence in your decision. If you are unsure or dealing with very expensive or sentimental footwear, consider consulting a professional shoe repair specialist.

Comparison of Finish Types