How to Dye Fur
Dyeing fur is a difficult process because the leather and fur will react to heat and chemicals. However, fur can be dyed with dyes made specifically for fur. The trick to dyeing fur is to take your time. Because it requires time and constant kneading and wringing, you will most likely dye your fur in about one-square-foot sections. Allow yourself plenty of time to dye your fur.
Things You'll Need
- Newspapers
- Disposable exam gloves
- Dye for fur
- Water
- Mixing cups
- Dyeing bowl
- Timer
- Board to dry fur on
Instructions
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1
Line the work area with newspapers to prevent spillage.
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2
Put on disposable gloves.
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3
Mix dye for a small portion of the fur (about one foot square). Add water to dye as directed on the dye bottle.
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4
Place a one-foot-square section of the fur upside down in dyeing bowl.
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5
Pour dye over the section.
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Start a timer so that it tracks elapsed time.
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Let dye soak in.
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Distribute dye evenly in the section, using your fingers to knead and squeeze the dye through the pelt and fur.
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9
Remove the fur when it is the color desired. Note the time on the timer for future dyeing.
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10
Squeeze the excess water from the fur and stretch the fur on the drying board.
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Let the fur dry a few days.
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12
Repeat dyeing the pelt in one-foot increments until the entire pelt is dyed.
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Tips & Warnings
You will want to dye in one-foot increments because dyeing is tiring as well as hard on the hands.
Be sure to mix the same amount each time for an even dyeing result.
Do not switch dye lots because the colors can vary slightly.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
