Leather is a beautiful and versatile material that can be used to create all sorts of things, from furniture to clothing. If you have some old leather items that you want to restore, or if you want to dye some new leather products a different color, Kiwi leather dye is a great option. In this article, we will answer some common questions about how to use Kiwi leather dye, including how to prepare the leather for dying and how to apply the dye.
What is Leather Dyeing?
Leather dyeing is the process of changing the color of leather by applying a pigment to its surface.
The dye penetrates the outer layers of the leather, and bonds with it on a molecular level. This allows for a durable, long-lasting change in color that can be customized to your preference. [1]
Reasons to Dye Leather
There are a variety of reasons why someone might choose to dye their leather. One reason is simply to change the color of an item, such as if you have an old black leather jacket that you would like to make into a brown one. Another reason is to restore or repair damaged leather items, such as if your favorite pair of shoes has scuffs and scratches that need to be covered up.
Dyeing can also be used to prevent further damage from occurring, as some dyes contain UV-inhibiting agents which help keep leather from fading in the sun.
Types of Leather Dyes
Alcohol-Based Leather Dye
Alcohol-based leather dyes are the most common type of dye used for leather and come in a variety of colors. They produce vibrant, quick-drying results, but they may fade or crack over time. Alcohol-based dyes are great for small areas or if you need to make a quick color change.
Oil-Based Leather Dye
Oil-based leather dyes are less common than alcohol-based dyes, but they offer a more permanent solution. They produce a slower drying result and the colors tend to be more muted, but their longevity makes them worth considering if you’re looking for something that will last.
Water-Based Leather Dye
Water-based leather dyes are the newest type of dye on the market. They offer a non-toxic, environmentally friendly alternative to traditional leather dyes and can be used for both natural and synthetic materials. Water-based dyes usually produce more muted colors than their alcohol or oil counterparts, but they offer an easy way to make subtle color changes without the hassle of other types of dyes.
Low VOC Leather Dye
Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) leather dyes are a great choice for those looking for an eco-friendly option. These dyes contain fewer chemicals than traditional leather dyes and produce less harmful emissions when applied, making them safer for the environment and anyone who works with it.
The Sun as a Leather Dye
The sun is a great way to dye leather naturally and without the use of any harsh chemicals. This method works best with lighter colors, as exposure to strong sunlight can cause dark colors to fade quickly. If you’re looking for an easy, natural way to change the color of your leather items, this is definitely worth considering.
Paint as a Leather Dye
Paint can be used to dye leather as well, though it usually requires a bit more work than other methods. You’ll need to use a flexible paint that is designed for use on leather and make sure you have the right supplies to apply it evenly. This isn’t the best choice for large projects, but if you’re working with smaller items or looking for a unique color option, this could be worth trying out.
Antique Leather Dye
Antique leather dyes are specifically designed to create an aged, vintage look on your leather items. These dyes come in a variety of shades and can be used to give any item a classic, timeless feel.
Shoe Polish as a Leather Dye
Shoe polish can also be used to dye leather, though this method usually produces less vibrant results. This is a great way to make small color changes and cover up minor scuffs and scratches, but it won’t have much of an impact if you’re looking for a dramatic change. [2]
Types of Leather Finishes
Carnauba Wax
Carnauba wax is a natural finishing product made from the leaves of the carnauba palm tree. It adds a glossy, protective layer to your leather items and helps keep them looking their best for longer.
Leather Resolene/Acrylic
Leather resolene and acrylic resin are two similar products used to finish leather items. These finishes add a protective layer of shine to the surface and help keep dirt, dust, and moisture out.
Leather Tan Kote
Leather tan kote is a water-based finish that gives leather items a dark, natural patina. It’s perfect for those who want to give their pieces an aged, vintage look without sacrificing durability.
Types of Leather That Can Be Dyed
Dyeing Wet Leather vs. Dyeing Dry Leather
Leather can be dyed when it is wet or dry, but the type of dye used will depend on the condition of the leather.
Leather Painting vs. Leather Dyeing
Leather painting is similar to leather dyeing, but it requires a bit more work. Instead of using dyes, you’ll apply paint directly to the surface with a brush or sponge. This method can produce vibrant colors and unique patterns, but it also takes more time and effort than traditional dyeing methods.
Dyeing From one Color to Another
When dyeing leather from one color to another, you’ll need to be extra careful. It is always a good idea to test out the new dye on a small section of leather before applying it to the entire piece. This will help ensure that you get the desired results and avoid any unexpected mishaps along the way.
Leather Dye Color Combinations & Mixing
Mixing leather dyes is a great way to create unique, custom colors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different combinations to see what kind of results you get. Just remember to always test out your mixes on a small sample piece before applying it to the entire item. [3]
How to Dye Leather
1. Preparation – How to Dye Leather
Before you begin dyeing leather, you’ll need to prepare the surface. Start by cleaning it with a mild soap and soft brush, then use a damp cloth to remove any lingering dirt or debris. Once the leather has been prepped, you’re ready to move on to the next step.
Work Area – Ventilation
You’ll also need to make sure you have a well-ventilated work area. Leather dyes can be extremely strong, and they should never be used in an enclosed space. If you don’t have access to a well-ventilated room, consider wearing a respirator or protective mask while working with the dyes.
Work Area – Surface
To protect your work surface, you can cover it with a drop cloth or old newspaper. This will save you the hassle of having to clean up any drips and spills after you’re done dyeing.
Work Area – The Temperature
You should also pay attention to the temperature in your work area. For optimal results, leather dye should be applied at room temperature (65-75°F).
Tools & Supplies
To get started, you’ll need a few basic tools and supplies. These include:
- Leather dyes
- Leather sealer/finisher (optional)
- Soft cloths or sponges
- Paintbrush
- Bucket/container for mixing dye
- Thinning the Dye
Once you’ve gathered your supplies, it’s time to start thinning the dye. This can be done with either water or a leather thinner depending on your preference. If you’re using a leather thinner, make sure to read and follow the directions carefully.
2. Cleaning the Leather – How to Dye Leather
Before you start dyeing the leather, it’s important to clean it thoroughly. Start by wiping down the surface with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Then use a mild soap and water solution to clean the entire area.
Deglazer
If you’re dealing with an extremely dirty or stained leather item, you may want to use a deglazer before dyeing. This will help remove any remaining residue and allow the dye to penetrate the leather more evenly.
Cleaning
Once you’ve applied the deglazer, be sure to clean the leather once again. This will help ensure that all of the residue is removed and that there are no lingering traces of it left behind.
3. Dyeing the Leather – How to Dye Leather
Now that your leather is prepped and cleaned, you’re ready to start dyeing! Start by taking a small amount of the dye and mixing it with water or thinner until it reaches the desired consistency.
Application Techniques
There are several different ways to apply the dye, depending on your preferences. You can use a brush or cloth to paint the dye onto the leather, or you can submerge it in a tub of dye and let it soak for a few minutes.
Wool Dauber
If you’d like to add some extra depth or texture to your leather dye job, you can use a wool dauber. This tool is great for creating a marbled effect and adding subtle highlights and shadows.
Brush
Once you’ve applied the dye, use a soft brush to help it settle in and dry. This will help give the leather an even finish and prevent any unwanted splotches or streaks.
Rag/Cloth
Finally, once the dye has completely dried, use a cloth or rag to buff and shine the leather. This will seal in the color and give it a nice polished look.
Pulling
Now that you’ve completed all of the steps, your leather dye job should be looking great! With these tips and techniques, you can create beautiful pieces with professional-looking results. Good luck and happy dyeing!
Dipping
If you’d like to achieve a more uniform finish, you can try dipping the leather in the dye. This method is best used for larger pieces and will help ensure an even coverage. Be sure to wear protective gloves as the dye can stain your skin!
Airbrush Dyeing
For an even more precise finish, you can try airbrush dyeing. This technique will allow you to get into all of the nooks and crannies for a truly professional look. Make sure to use a respirator or protective mask when using an airbrush as it can be quite messy!
4. Conditioning the Leather – How to Dye Leather
After dyeing, it’s important to condition the leather in order to keep it looking its best. Start by rubbing a small amount of leather cleaner or saddle soap into the surface with a soft cloth. This will help remove any excess dye and protect the leather from cracking or fading over time.
5. Sealing/Finishing leather – How to Dye Leather
Carnauba Wax
Once you’ve cleaned and conditioned the leather, it’s time to seal and finish it. This can be done with a carnauba wax or a leather sealer. Both will help protect the leather from dirt, water, and other elements while also giving it an extra shine.
Leather Resolene
Another great option for finishing leather is leather resolene. This product is designed to help seal and protect the dye job while also providing a glossy coating that will make the colors pop.
6. Cleanup – How to Dye Leather
Once you’ve finished your dye job, be sure to clean up any excess dye that may have been left behind. This can be done with a damp cloth or paper towel and some mild soap. Make sure the area is completely dry before storing the item away.
Popular Leather Dyeing Products
If you’re looking for some popular leather dyeing products, here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- Angelus Leather Paint – This is a great all-around product that comes in multiple colors and provides excellent coverage.
- Fiebing’s Leather Dye – This dye is perfect for changing the color of your leather without having to strip it first. It comes in 12 different shades and can be easily applied with a brush or cloth.
- EcoFlow Dye Fixative – This fixative helps seal the leather after it has been dyed, providing extra protection from dirt and water.
- Kiwi Saddle Soap – Saddle soap is ideal for cleaning leather before and after dyeing. It helps remove dirt and grime while also conditioning the leather to help keep it soft and supple.
- Kiwi Leather Dye – This is a great all-purpose leather dye that will give you excellent coverage on most types of leather.
These are just a few products that can help you create beautiful leather items with professional looking results. With these tips and products, you’ll be able to master the art of leather dyeing in no time![4]
FAQ
What is the best way to apply leather dye?
The best way to apply leather dye is to brush it on with a soft cloth or sponge. This will ensure even coverage and help prevent any streaking or blotching.
Do you oil leather before you dye?
No, it is not necessary to oil leather before dyeing. However, conditioning the leather with a cleaner or saddle soap after the dying process will help protect the color and keep it looking its best. [5]
Can I mix the leather dye with water?
Yes, you can mix leather dye with water to make it thinner and easier to apply. Just be sure to keep the ratio of dye to water consistent in order to ensure an even coverage.
Does water permanently stain leather?
No, water will not permanently stain leather. However, it can cause discoloration and fading if the leather is repeatedly exposed to moisture. Be sure to clean and condition the leather regularly to ensure its longevity.
Useful Video: how to open a kiwi shoe polish can with easy steps
Conclusion
Having gone over the basic steps of how to use Kiwi leather dye, you now have the knowledge to choose between applying black, brown, or neutral dye to your own leather item. You are sure to enjoy the ease in which this dye can be applied and long lasting results. Remember to always check for colorfastness prior to starting any dying project and work in a well ventilated area. Before you begin dying your leather pieces, carefully read all manufacturer instructions. For best results it is also important not to rush through the dying process and take your time.
With these tips in mind, rest assured that you should have no problems using Kiwi leather dye with great results! Now that you know how easy it is to use Kiwi Leather Dye, why don’t you go ahead and test out your skills by transforming an old aged piece of leather into something new?
References
- https://blog.leatheredgepaint.com/what-is-leather-dye
- https://blog.leatheredgepaint.com/leather-dyeing-techniques-tanneries-vs.-leather-craftsmen
- https://rubnrestore.com/how-to/types-of-leather/
- https://leather-toolkits.com/reviews/best-leather-dyes/
- https://buffalojackson.com/blogs/insight/how-to-dye-leather-in-5-steps
