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Learn how to dye leather (shoes, bags, belts, and more).

I may be completely crazy for doing this...but I painted my Swedish Hasbeens. Now, before you pull your hair out in disagreement, I feel like I should mention that I have literally NEVER worn these shoes out and I have had them for YEARS. No exaggeration. Which is exactly why I decided to paint them. So that I could actually wear them. Okay, so now that I've over explained myself, let's get to the before and after photos.
Total Time1 hour
Keyword: diy, dyeing, leather, shoes
Author: Brittni

Equipment

Instructions

Tape off any areas you don't want to dye.

  • First things first - be sure to tape off the areas that you do not want the dye to go. You want to make sure the tape is nice and secure to get a crisp clean line.
  • This really helps to make the finished shoe look like it was always the new color (as opposed to painted on, which isn't always a cool look).

Then it's time to dye.

  • As for the dyeing, it works just like paint. The only difference is that it's less forgiving than paint.
  • You need to apply pretty even coats for the leather to maintain an allover color that doesn't appear blotchy. It's still simple to do though, even with a larger surface area to cover.
  • You'll just have to go over the entire area several times with a paint brush and more dye to get even coverage that builds up over a few layers.

Remove the tape.

  • Once the dye is completely dry, carefully remove the tape and they're ready to wear.

Notes

More Tips for Dyeing Leather
I also found that painting in just one direction and not overfilling your brush with dye helps with getting even coverage.
Once you've reached the desired color, allow the dye to dry completely before using.
You can get your blow dryer out to speed up the process, if you're impatient like me.
What other leather items can be dyed this way?
Really anything that is leather can be dyed using this same technique. It's a great way to refresh something that you aren't using. Or just a way to customize  pieces you already have in your closet.
Here are some ideas...
leather belt
leather bag
leather wallet
leather napkin rings
What other items can you think of that this technique would work for? I'd love to hear your suggestions.