Dip Dyeing Leather

[bylinesupplyco]

Hello all!

I use Hermann Oak veg tan for all of my projects, and I am having difficulty with the dyeing process. I used to dye with a wool dauber, however that did not produce the result I wanted.

On the recommendation of a reputable leather supply company up here in Oregon, I began dip dyeing with Fiebings oil dye. I have some containers filled with dye, and I submerge the leather completely in the tank, then let it dry.

This definitely increased the quality and coverage, however it still seems to be streaky in some spots. I would like to achieve a perfect dye and completely even look if at all possible.

I'm not sure if this has to do with the Hermann Oak that I'm using, or what the issue could be.

I have seen some people using veg tan that is absolutely perfect with absolutely no imperfections, to the point that the leather is almost white looking. Does anyone know what this could be?

Any help would be appreciated! Thanks!

[coreysyms]

1. If higher quality leather is what you are after make sure you are using Hermann Oak #1, I have both first and second quality in my shop and the difference is very noticeable.

2. I like the results I get with Tandy's water stain and a high density sponge, circle circle circle motion, 2 coats usually does the trick.

3. Hand dying is going to have some color variance, its just life, you can work to get color very even, but its just not going to happen. Drum dyed veg tan will have a very even color so perhaps buying pre-dyed is a route for you.

[electrathon]

When I pull it out of the dye I pat it with a towel to remove the excess. It helps a lot with the evening out of the color. I usually dye the same way you stated.