You can certainly add color to already dyed pieces, but be warned that the process can take longer to achieve a color you are looking for and yield uneven results if not done properly. This also limits you to only being able to make a lighter color darker.
Dying Leather Darker
You can either purchase an oil based or a water based leather dye online or at a leather store. Read the instructions on the dye before using it.
A dye or a finish can be used to restore leather. Dyes are still subject to sun-fading and can also backstain (just as blue jeans can stain furniture), so they often require an additional sealer like Resolene®. Dyes cannot be used to lighten a color (for example to cover darker stains).
Leather Dye differs from acrylic shoe paint in that it pentrates the surface of the leather to stain it permanently, creating a rich colored surface while maintaining the surface properties of the leather.
You have many, many choices when it comes to dyes - there are oil, water and alcohol based dyes out there. You may need to do a bit of testing to see which one you prefer. Water-based leather dye is my go-to because I feel that is more forgiving on the leather and it's easy to clean up with soap and water.
Conclusion. Overall, you can dye leather in any color.
Leather dye should last at least two years with regular use after application before requiring further touch up. It often lasts much longer.
While you want to apply the dye to ensure it stays on, applying a generous amount has the opposite effect. Too much dye leads to oversaturation, which means the dye washes away easily. If you have a water-based dye with solvents, water based dyes might permeate into the leather!
It Is Possible To Dye Leather Again
You can also dye leather that has already been dyed, with paint, dye or even neatsfoot oil. If you change your mind or want to try a different look, you can do so, and this guide will take you through the process.
A color change can be made from any color to another, i.e. black to white, or white to black, with just as successful results. The Leather Colorant Kit used in this guide can be used to change the color of all leather, vinyl, plastic, PVC & leather cloth car interiors.
In order to re-dye a leather article, the surface must be as near to the natural leather as possible to allow the dye to penetrate. Any old dye, paint or top finish will create a barrier to entry and the dye will not penetrate. If there is any barrier to entry then the dye, when dry, will likely rub off.
There are many different dying and pigmentation processes applied to different types of leather. Some add a dye and then lock it in with a top coat, some dyes simply soak into the leather and darken the tone whilst adding some protection. Others completely cover the leather with a pigmented coat.
If this is happening to your sofa, then to put it simply: it is poor quality leather. When a leather is coated with a coloured paint or varnish, either by a roller or by glueing a coloured foil on top, after a few years (sometimes less) of use, you will likely find that this layer either wears away or peels off.
- Use a clean cloth to briskly wipe down the leather and clean off any lingering dust and/or body oils. - Use tape to cover any hardware you don't want to dye. - Hydrate the leather with a light coat of olive oil; hydrated leather will better receive the dye. Apply a thin layer in a circular motion with a clean cloth.
Pro Dye has an oil based color added to it and Leather Dye is tinted with powdered color. Due to the oil in the Pro Dye, you may also achieve richer colors. Since both dyes are alcohol based, they can cause your leather to dry out after application.
Leather dye is similar to leather stain since it colors the material. The difference is the size of the molecules, which are much smaller in dye, penetrating the leather deeper for permanent coloring.
Fiebing's Leather Dye is th most recognized penetrating, alcohol-based leather dye in the world! For use on vegetable tanned or unfinished leather. Apply with a sponge or wool dauber. Will not peel, crack or rub-off when fully dry while remaining flexible.
Select from a wide range of leather dyes and stains for colouring natural vegetable tanned leather. Tips for colouring: Dye colours will vary depending on the base colour of the leather. It is always a good idea to test a small area first.
Dying leather with sugar free Kool-Aid packets is simple - just mix 4-5 packets (usually about 3/$1) into 2 cups of hot water, then soak a chunk of natural veg tan for 20 minutes or until darker than desired color.
ANGELUS Leather Paint Set – Best Acrylic Leather Paint
Angelus is a set of 12 colors suitable for any leather clothing projects. They are acrylic, therefore water-based, durable and safe to use. The colors are easy to mix and blend different shades.
If you are applying paint on top of leather you have dyed yourself, be patient! Allow the dye plenty of time to dry before applying paint on top of it. Be sure to buff any excess pigment before your paint application as well.