Dyeing Leather

Dyeing your shoes can be a great alternative to paint, particularly if you are covering large areas. Dye is easy to apply and is quickly absorbed into leather, carrying the pigment deep into the fibers.

Four colours are available in the Waproo Dye range. For a great deep black we have the Coxy Black Colouring.

It's important to note that dyeing shoes is a permanent solution to changing the colour of you shoes. You can only go from a light colour to a darker colour, unlike painting shoes.

Step One: Stripping

• Always prepare your shoes well.
• Use a cloth and wet with Stripper, then rub vigorously over shoe to remove dirt, polish or oils.
• An old toothbrush dipped in stripper can be used for areas between the upper and the sole.
• Allow stripper to evaporate, approximately 5-10 minutes.

Step Two: Dyeing

• Now apply dye with brush provided in long even strokes.
• The first coat is to prime the leather. Ensure colour remains even.
• Let the first coat dry for around 30 minutes.
• Then apply a second coat and if necessary a third coat until you achieve desired shade. Between each coat allow to dry 30 minutes.
  

Step Three: Buffing and polishing

• Allow leather to dry thoroughly for at least 1-2 hours, then buff off with a cotton cloth.
• For a high gloss finish you can use a polish.
• In most cases your dye will not rub off, however for items that are being handled a lot, or are against clothes (bags) neutral sealer helps prevent dye rub off.
  

Shoe Dyeing Tips

• The more time you spend preparing your shoes the better the results will be.
• It is important when stripping to try take the shine off the leather, this will help the dye to penetrate into the leather.
• Always strip and dye in a well ventilated area & away from carpets. Dyes leave permanent stains.
• Each time you apply dye to your shoes make sure that they are completely dry before applying next coat.
• To many coats of dye can dry leather.
• To ensure a smooth surface, stuff paper in your shoes or place them on a shoe tree.
• Times recommended are very approximate, for a better job leave longer.