Are you disappointed that a much-loved leather jacket no longer looks as impressive as it used to? Do you shudder at the cost of paying for a new leather jacket while knowing you’re unlikely to find a jacket that fits you as well as the one you’ve loved for some time?
If so, you’re not alone, but there is a solution. Dyeing a leather jacket is a fantastic way to give it new life, and to ensure you look great in an item you love. If you want to know how you can dye your leather jacket, we have the guide for you.
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Why Do People Use Leather Dyes On A Jacket?
There are many reasons why people dye a leather jacket, including the fact that most leather jackets come in a limited range of colours. If you find a jacket which fits well and is functional, the colour doesn’t need to be a turn-off.
It might be that the leather has seen better days, faded in direct sunlight and dyeing it revitalises it.
Whether you choose to dye the jacket the same colour, or you want a completely different outcome, leather dye is a great way to transform a black leather jacket, or any desired colour, such as dark brown.
How To Dye A Leather Jacket
You could take your leather jacket to a professional to dye for you, but this can be expensive. There is no reason you cannot dye your own jacket, and this overview provides you with all the steps you need to cover.
Shopping list when dyeing a leather jacket
Here are some items to add to your shopping list to ensure the dyeing process runs smoothly
- Rubber gloves
- Covers for your workspace and surrounding areas to minimize stains
- Cloths, rags or scraps to apply dye
- Paper towel products
- Cotton buds, balls or swabs, which are great for dyeing corners and edges
- Leather jacket dye
- Wool dauber
- Oil
- Leather conditioner
- Leather preparer (optional)
- Leather deglazer (optional)
Having these items available in advance helps make the dyeing leather process easier.
Work in a well-ventilated space
The choice of dye is important, but a crucial component of the dyeing process is working in a well-ventilated area. Also, be sure to cover any surfaces that you don’t want covered in dye as accidents can happen! You should also wear gloves to dye leather products, and make sure you have a clean cloth or two handy when you dye leather to catch spills and keep your large table clean.
Always patch and improve the condition of your leather jacket before you dye it
You’ll be keen to start the dyeing process as quickly as possible, but carrying out preparation work before you dye the jacket will enhance its appearance.
Look for holes or areas that need a patch. If there is a hole, a soft, thin leather is best, and this is applied to the inside of the hole. If you need to dye the patch, please do so before you apply glue, as the glue will stop the dye from permeating the leather.
Once you are happy with the condition of the leather jacket, take time to clean it, removing dust and body oils, and a damp cloth should suffice.
You should also hydrate the leather, making it more receptive to the dye. Oil, such as olive oil, should be applied in a circular motion, start in the centre and work to the edges. An oil soaked cloth is the best way to apply this smoothly, so be sure to wear gloves at this part of the process. Some people place oil into a spray bottle and apply it that way. Again, use a clean cloth to remove excess olive oil so it will dry completely.
You don’t necessarily need a leather preparer, but some people feel it enhances the finished look. Similarly, items such as leather conditioner or liquid dye are optional, and often a matter of personal taste.
Applying the dye: leather jackets
Use whatever leather dye you have purchased and with a small paint brush or rag, apply the dye to the jacket. If you are dyeing a large area, thicker strokes are more effective, and apply the dye with brush strokes in a circular motion. You might need multiple coats to dye leather, and if you do, look out for excess dye and be sure to wipe it off.
You have no shortage of options in selecting commercial dye so consider price, reviews and whether you need an alcohol based dye or water based dyes when shopping. Most dyes are suitable, allowing you to achieve an even coating.
Applying several thin coats is often better because if you go in too heavy with your first coat, it can be overpowering. Take time to ensure the leather surface is completely dry. Letting leather dry is vital in achieving the best dye colour.
Apply leather conditioner after the leather dye
Once you are happy with the dye, apply a thin layer of conditioner (wax conditioner works well) and then allow the jacket to dry. Once dried, review the appearance of the jacket, ensuring you are happy with the leather finish. Sometimes, the first coat is all you need when you apply leather conditioner but sometimes with dyed leather, you need to add more to get the finish that is right for you. This is a luxurious material, so take the time to ensure it looks fantastic.
Alcohol based dyes are great for additional coats
If there are small areas which need improved, leather paint is an effective method of dyeing leather in small areas to achieve the right dye colour or natural colour. Applying a fresh coat and more dye with thick strokes in circular motions can help you achieve a shiny finish.
The methods to dye leather coats also apply in dyeing leather shoes or any leather product. By following the entire process, you’ll find you can achieve the final colour of choice when it comes to any leather item, even if you need to apply multiple coats.
