How to Dye Leather: A Complete Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Dyeing leather is a skill in of itself, It's a skill that allows you to customize and restore leather goods to your exact specifications. Whether you're working with vegetable-tanned leather for a new project or refreshing an old favourite, understanding the proper techniques will ensure beautiful, long-lasting results.

What You'll Need

• Vegetable-tanned leather (undyed or natural)
• Leather dye (alcohol-based or water-based) (Fiebings is an amazing brand, but there are other's out there to try).
• Deglazer or leather preparer
• Wool daubers or sponges
• Soft cloths
• Leather finish or sealant (Fiebings Resolene)
• Gloves to protect your hands
• Drop cloth or newspaper

Step 1: Prepare Your Leather

Before applying any dye to leather, your leather must be clean and free of oils, finishes, or dirt. Use a deglazer or leather preparer to strip away any existing finish. Apply it with a clean cloth in circular motions, then allow the leather to dry completely. This step is crucial for even dye absorption.

Step 2: Test Your Dye

Always test your dye on a scrap piece of the same leather or an inconspicuous area. This helps you understand how the leather will absorb the colour and how many coats you'll need to achieve your desired shade.
**Remember, Leather colour intensity changes from wet to dry leather, so allow time to dry for a final result on your test piece**.

Step 3: Apply the Dye

Using a wool dauber or sponge, apply the dye in smooth, even strokes. Work in sections and maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks. For darker colours, you'll need multiple thin coats rather than one heavy application. Allow each coat to dry for 15-30 minutes before applying the next for more even results.

Step 4: Buff and Seal

Once your final coat is completely dry (wait at least 24 hours), buff the leather with a soft cloth to remove any excess dye and bring out the sheen. Then apply a leather finish or sealant to protect the dye and add durability. (This helps prevent colour transfer).

Pro Tips for Success

• Work in a well-ventilated area, especially with alcohol-based dyes
• Apply thin coats for better control and more even coverage
• Warm leather absorbs dye more readily than cold leather
• Different leather types absorb dye differently—vegetable-tanned works best
• Allow proper drying time between coats for professional results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't skip on the preparation!!!
It's the foundation of a good dye job. Avoid applying dye too heavily in one coat, as this can lead to uneven colour and cracking. Never rush the drying process, as this can cause the dye to rub off or appear blotchy.