Dying Race Leathers?

Question

I have a full leather racing suit that I would like to dye all black. I figured dying would be much cheaper then buying another set and selling this set. So does anyone know how to or can give me helpful hints on dying my full suit?

Answer 1

I dont think that you can dye leather successfully.  You should perhaps contact a leather manufacturer and find the best way to change the colour but something like a tanning product would probably be your best bet.

Answer 2

First off- No Dyes! It is a leather finish that you need to use. If you are in the USA We have an easy DIY rub on leather refinishing system that can give you a lasting flexible finish, and you can choose the sheen. If you are in the UK there is a member here called Judy B and her company does the same as mine.

If you would like more info you can contact me at http://www.DIYLeatherSolutions.com

David

Answer 3

Hey C J

The above answers are technically correct, if you need to dye the whole thing - but if you only need to change the colour of parts of the suit (if some's already black) then you can clean the leather with baby wipes and use a good quality shoe dye (from a cobblers is best.) You may need to do a couple of coats, and if you scratch it you'll have to touch it up.

I've dyed loads of stuff over the years and been happy with the results - lets face it, you'll be going so d**n fast who'll notice!

Answer 4

This is something we have done a lot of and supplied products to companies who also do this service.  You need pigments and finishes to successfully do this but turning it black is relatively straight forward.

It is a very successful process.

You need pigments for this type of work and not dyes.  Dyes will not soak in through the finish that is on there and you would not be able to alter the colour with these.

Please please do not use shoe polish this is entirely the wrong product to use.