USMC black rub off prevention

[Prince]

I mostly make armor and most of that is dyed USMC black on the inside. Problem is, sometimes it rubs off on a person, especially on the hot Texas ren fair days. I do use ample amounts of super sheen but on the armors that touch skin, like the female armored corsets, they will bleed some. Is there another type of sealer that works well that I don't know about, or maybe I should switch to oil dyes? Or what. Any suggestions? Also, its not just the USMC, now that I think about it, the mahogany and other dyed interiors also bled. I used to dip (read "drown") armor pieces in super sheen and they'd still rub off some. I can of course line things and do other expensive work arounds, but most customers aren't willing to pay for it.

[abn]

Azmal, here are two related posts. Perhaps this information can help you figure out the solution:

http://www.leatherworker.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=707

http://www.leatherworker.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=282

Personally, I don't dye the inside of leather items... I leave the insides of belts and wristbands natural. However, after seeing some of your work, I can see how a two-tone effect would be less desirable on black armor.

Hope this helps! -Alex

[barra]

I ebonise the leather. I make up a solution by placing steel wool (not soap pads) in Vinegar. Let it sit for about a week for the chemical reaction to take place and then apply to the leather with a brush, dauber or sponge. This stuff does not rub off. Please be aware that this works equally as good at ebonising wood aka the bench top when you knock over the jar.

Barra

[Peter Ellis]

I ebonise the leather. I make up a solution by placing steel wool (not soap pads) in Vinegar. Let it sit for about a week for the chemical reaction to take place and then apply to the leather with a brush, dauber or sponge. This stuff does not rub off. Please be aware that this works equally as good at ebonising wood aka the bench top when you knock over the jar.

Barra

This is a very old formula for making black dye. There is some concern about whether it damages the leather in the long term. I don't have an opinion, having not worked with it myself.

[Prince]

steel wool and vinegar? ..I couldn't imagine that smelling anything other than vomit inducing! It does have to be equipped by a person; how does it smell after the chemical reaction?

[MatthewD]

Shouldn't have to bad of a smell but I will do some tomorrow and give you a heads up on the smell...

[Prince]

Right on. Experimenting never hurts... usually... lol I may try to find some vinegar and try it too, got plenty of wool in the shop. Chemistry is fun : ) Wonder if we could find a catalyst so it doesn't take a week. Peter there said it was a very old formula so I guess it's nothing secret or new, may be some more info for the process somewhere.