Removing dye transfer from saddle leather?

Question

I wore a pair of new tall boots while riding in my McCall Lady Wade western saddle and some of the black dye transferred to the fenders. (Argh, was I MAD!) What can I do to clean it? It's a beautiful saddle and I'd like to hear from all of you who've actually done something like this successfully so I don't mess up my leather. This is the saddle (minus the icky dye transfer).

http://pic80.picturetrail.com:80/VOL2132/10980997/19692373/317551435.jpg

Answer 1

Ugh...I'd be sooo ticked too.  I do not have experience with this, but if I were you I would send a message to Jeff Sadler on here...he has done lots of leather/saddle work and might know.  I think that is his name.  He always has really good answers.  Also, you could ask a local saddler.

If I were you, I would NOT use a leather stripper without the supervision of an experienced saddler.  Not only will it strip that black off, but it will strip off the color and finish of your current saddle.  So, be careful.

Answer 2

It's okay, just go to the saddlers (tack shop) and you can get a product that's a leather stripper. I can't remember what it's made off, but it should work on this just fine.

It was a clear liquid kind of like alcohol product? It's a few years ago that same thing happened with me. And this worked a charm.

Answer 3

Not sure sorry... I got a big scratch in my saddle (that me and my genius but oil on so it is this big dark thing) and someone suggested shark skin paper. It apparently is not to rough on the leather and rubs marks out. It might work for the dye, Sorry about the saddle.

Answer 4

Oh no!  :(

If it were me, I'd take it to a shoe repair place (a reputable one obviously, not the We-Fix-Ur-Heels-While-U-Wait kind at the mall!) and see what they make of it.  They have a good knowledge of leathers and the treatments they typically undergo (sealants, waxes, dye composition, etc.)  You might also contact the manufacturer of the saddle to see what they have to say.  I wouldn't use the stripper (well, I'd at least be afraid to!) because it would likely remove some or all of the dye or finish that is supposed to stay on the saddle.

That is what I would do...but that's just me.