Can Leather be Re-Dyed?

[Dormouse]

I have in mind to try some simple leather-work with the leather from an old jacket I bought in Morocco when I was 16.

I've only worn it a couple of times and think I only got it it because the leather is so buttery soft - it's antelope apparently.

It's currently a light taupe colour which I'm certain is a dye but if poss I'd like to re-dye it.

Is this do-able without getting too complicated?


Thanks for any advice.

 

[Harvestman]

Don't you hate it when nobody talks to you? I have no idea what the answer to your question is, but a thread without a reply looks lonely.

 

[wingstoo]

I would have thought so, but only for a darker colour, have seen it done on leather shoes.

Wings

 

[Dormouse]

I suppose it isn't essential to dye the leather but the current colour, whilst not bright or outlandish, doesn't seem "natural" at present. Though it may just be that I'm used to the warm, darkish tones of veg tanned leather.

Not having any sort of workshop or specialist tools, and the leather being so soft, I think I shall have a go at some small pouches - for tinder and such.

Anyway, if anyone can tell me how I could go about trying to dye the stuff I'd be grateful. Thanks.

 

[g4ghb]

it will probably dye ok - as long as it is a darker colour. I first started dyeing using punch shoe dye from woolworths but I guess that is no longer an option...... :-( though i'd guess you could get some from a cobblers / good old hardware store etc. they came with a little fluffy 'dauber' to apply - best a number of thin layers than trying to do one thick one. If you are going to have some scraps then dye them first, if it fails you won't spoil your work

 

[Dormouse]

Thanks g4ghb!

Stupidly, I didn't even think of shoe dye!

I'm going shopping!

 

[Buckshot]

In principle yes you can redye but as said, only for a darker colour
The problem you may have is some finishing puts a coating on the leather to stop marks and staining. That will stop any dye getting in
I have some lovly soft cream coloured leather from the back of a sofa but it wont redye because of the protective coating

Best bet is to try a small patch/ off cut and see

Mark

 

[Dormouse]

Thanks for that Buckeye - I shall do a tester.