Silver Dye or Finish?

[WesTexas]

I make handle bar wraps for bicycles using unfinished upholstery leather. They are simply 1 1/4 inch strips about 5+ feet long and I dye them natural and primary colors depending on how the individual want to accessorize their bicycle. I've had an inquiry for a silver finish. The owner likes the look of his current synthetic wrap but would like the feel of the leather. And that's the challenge, keeping the feel.

I haven't seen this particular bike - full blown custom, hand made - so I'm not in the position to offer alternatives right now. But when I can I'd like to have some suggestions ready. I also haven't asked if he's interested in a Bright or Antique Silver.

I'm relatively new to this so "My Answer for Dummies" responses would be most appreciated. Details please.

What suggestions and creative ideas do you have?

And just to get things started on a "How I'm Not Going To Do It" vein, I'm not going to color them with a silver sharpie.

Chuck

[terrahyd]

A few years ago I tooled mechanic wrenches on several belts for a tool company. The finish I settled with was CRYLONE auto paint.; HI-TEMPT EXHAUST CROME.....silver paint is oily and never seems to dry. I sprayed in a small cup and applied with a small brush. You could spray in your case. I sealed it with a wood finish called VARATHANE. This was an exhausting project.; The finish sealed the project and stoped any bleeding of the paint. This was in 1983. They are still my clients; and I use VARATHANE on all of my buckles to date......still have the prototype. still looking good............DOC.

[cowgirlrae]

I have used 'rub 'n buff silver leaf paste.

This stuff is amazing, it is very concentrated and "tiny" bit goes a long way. I used it on wood to create the look of solid metal. And on a pair of shoes to make a leather covered buckle look "silver".

It can be applied to any surface, I learned to apply it sparingly and not buff. Once it dries it can be waxed over and should hold up well.

Get it at a craft store in the paint and finish section, metal leaf and applied faux finishes.

its rather cheap and may be worth a try. May give a silver finish to the leather than may mimic metal.

Rub 'n Buff - Silver Leaf