Photo Credit: Wiki How
Faux leather is an incredibly resilient material. But, it’s not impervious to scuffs and scrapes from everyday wear and tear. Scuff marks can be more obvious on faux leather because the material has a smooth, plastic surface. When the surface gets a scratch, the upper gets scrapped off, making the surface look uneven.
You can always send your shoes to a cobbler and have it professionally repaired but there are quick fixes that you can do at home using products that you probably have on hand. Here are some ways to repair a scrape on faux leather dance shoes:
DIY Fixes for Scuffed Faux Leather
Shoe Polish
Photo Credit: The Trend Spotter
For dance shoes made with black faux leather, this is a great trick to try! With a damp cloth, clean the scuffed area gently to remove residual dirt or grime. You want a clean surface to work on. Then, apply a thin layer of black shoe polish on the scuffs, making sure to cover the parts with uneven color. Work the product into the material with medium pressure then wait a couple of minutes to dry the polish before buffing with a brush. Add more layers to even out the color.
Acrylic Paint
Photo Credit: Bobvila
This trick will work on shoes of all colors as long as the acrylic paint comes in the same shade. Again, clean the scuffed parts with a damp, clean cloth then leave to dry. With a paint brush, apply a thin layer of the acrylic paint. Add the paint in thin layers, making sure to air dry in between applications until you’ve achieved the right saturation to make the scuff marks unnoticeable. Finish up with a layer of clear nail polish then air-dry. This tip is best for small scuffed areas only.
Shoe Goo
Photo Credit: Confessions of a Refashionista
Shoe Goo could work as a sealant to the scuffed areas while also giving the surface of the material an even finish. This product comes in a variety of colors so find a shade that matches your scuffed dance shoes. To repair the shoes, just clean the scuffed marks with a dampened cloth then air-dry. Apply a small amount of shoe goo on the damaged spot using a paint brush. Wait until the product is completely dry and you're good to go.
Modge Podge
Photo Credit: Pretty Girl Science
Just like shoe goo, Modge Podge can be used as a seal of sorts to even out the finish of scuffed faux leather. To repair the shoes, just clean the scuffed marks with a dampened cloth then air-dry. Apply a small amount of Modge Podge on the damaged spot using a paint brush. Wait until the product is completely dry and that’s it.
After Repair Care
Photo Credit: Axil Hospitality Supply
After fixing the scuffed marks, you need to clean the entire shoes too. Use the right cleaning products to extend the life of the shoes. Finish up with a good spritz of waterproofing product to seal the treated area, ensuring that the scuffed marks won’t show again when the shoes are exposed to moisture. We suggest applying two layers of waterproofer for best results and apply it the night before you’re set to use the shoes.
Scuffing is quite common in Latin dance shoes made with faux leather but do not let these unsightly marks keep you from using your favorite dance shoes. With these quick fixes, you can do the repairs yourself while also extending the life of your shoes. Sounds like a win-win situation, right? We’ve got more practical tips so stick around!
