How to Dye Tan Leather

Dye leather clothes or accessories carefully.

Dyeing leather is a great alternative to coloring it with paint, especially if you are dyeing a large area or entire garment. Leather dyes are designed specifically for use on leather, but the process is still not exact and care must be taken to ensure it's done correctly. Because of variation in the animals' skins made into leather and in tanning processes, not all leather will take to dye equally. The process is not a science, but an art you may have to try several times to get the best results.

Things You'll Need

• Leather
• Leather deglazer
• Leather dye
• Soft cloth
• Sponge
• Soft-bristled brush
• Misting spray bottles
• Leather cleanser
• Leather protective spray

Instructions

Preparing the Leather

1. Use leather deglazer to remove protective finishes put on the leather during tanning. The tanning process of animal hide into leather involves adding protection to prevent decay and repel stains. This must be removed before you will be able to dye your leather. Squeeze deglazer onto a soft cloth or sponge and apply to leather surface. Rub gently, being sure to cover the entire area. Allow the leather to dry before moving on to the next step.

2. Apply the leather cleanser to the leather with a soft-bristled brush according to the directions on the cleanser bottle.

3. Dampen the leather slightly. Use either a sponge or a misting spray bottle with lukewarm water inside to evenly dampen the surface of the leather. This will make it more receptive to the dye.

Dyeing the Leather

1. Apply the first coat of dye with either a soft cloth or spray bottle. You will need to use an intermediate color between the leather's original color and your intended shade. For example, if you are starting with a tan shade of leather and are dyeing it black, start by dyeing it red and then apply black dye later. Use long, even strokes to cover the surface if you use a cloth. If you opt for a spray bottle, be sure to coat the entire surface evenly. Make sure the color is even and is not darker in any spots.

2. Dab off excess surface dye with a soft cloth when you finish each coat of dye. This will speed the drying process and ensure even coverage and coloration.

3. Apply your final color of dye once the first coat is completely dry. This can take up to 2 hours but is an important step to prevent your colors from mixing. Use the same process as you did for the intermediate color.

4. Dab off the excess dye from your final coat and allow the leather to dry completely. As it dries, be sure to stretch it carefully to make sure the fibers stay loose and breathable and that the leather does not become too stiff.

Finishing and Protecting the Leather

1. Buff the fully dyed and dried leather with a soft cloth to remove any excess dye.

2. Apply a protective leather spray to the entire surface of the leather. This will help seal in the dye and repel new stains from the surface.

3. Allow leather to dry according to the directions on the protective spray, usually at least 1 hour, before wear or use.

References

• Fiebing.com: Using Leather Dye