Dyeing finished leather

[Mac2]

I have a few older shoulder holsters, all in finished brown. I wear mainly black T shirts with a black leather vest most of the time. The brown rig sticks out like, well you know.
Has anybody had any experience dyeing over already finished leather?
Thanks, Mac.

 

[hoghunting]

You can use black shoe polish as it works very well.

 

[Jeff F]

It may depend on what the leather was originally dyed with, but I have striped the finish off of leather before with Denatured alcohol then re dyed with very good results. I know there are a few here that work with leather, hopefully one will reply.

 

[rcmodel]

Fiebings leather die.
It is solvent based and will cut through most leather finishes and penetrate the leather.
http://www.tandyleatherfactory.com/home/department/leather-dye/Fiebings-Leather-Dye/2100-01.aspx

You can find it at a well stocked shoe store, saddle tac shop, hobby supply store, etc.

Liquid shoe polish is more like a paint, and will only lay on the surface, and peel off later.

rc

 

[rbernie]

Paste or cream shoe polish will likely wind up rubbing off on your clothing.

 

[dho3]

That is funny, because I own many pairs of cowboy boots of high quality and frequently polish them with cordovan polish to give them a different color appearance and it never wears off for years.

 

[doubleh]

The original finish need to be removed for the best results. You will get better dye penetration and a more even coverage doing this. After the dye is dry simply apply a new finish coat to protect the leather.

I prefer Fiebing's oil based dyes and Neat Lac is a very durable finish and is easily touched up. It does give a glossy finish though. There are satin and dull finishes available.

Tandy Leather Company or Hidecrafter's will have everything you will need to do a proper color change.