How to Remove Ballpoint Pen Ink From Patent Leather

Patent leather is a leather with a high gloss, shiny finish.

It is easiest to remove the ink while the ink is still fresh and hasn't set into the leather. If the ink has set, it may take a few attempts to remove.

1. Soak a cotton ball or cotton swab in rubbing alcohol.

2. Rub the cotton on the ink stain. Rubbing alcohol dissolves ink. Allow the alcohol to work into the leather for five minutes.

3. Dampen a cloth with water and wipe the surface free of rubbing alcohol. Repeat as needed until the ink is removed.

Tip

Although rubbing alcohol is the most effective at remove ballpoint ink, vinegar diluted with water, spray glass cleaner or non-acetone polish remover can all be used in place of rubbing alcohol.