Dyeing leather that's already been dyed

[OurJud]

Bought four sheets of cowhide for a notebook cover project. The leather has already been dyed brown, but I would like to go even darker.

Here's an image of the actual leather I bought:

http://i.ebayimg.com/t/LEATHER-PIECES-OF-COWHIDE-LARGE-1-25CM-X-15CM-ESPRESSO-2-mm-PULL-UP-/00/s/MTYwMFgxMzUz/z/xnEAAOxyUSFSJ0QK/$(KGrHqJHJE0FIKNC4Tu,BSJ0QJeml!~~60_12.JPG

Can you please advise on type of dye and any preparation needed.

Thanks.

[BJ]

some hints and tips here. http://www.ebay.com/gds/How-to-Dye-Leather-/10000000177628130/g.html

[OurJud]

Thanks, BJ. I did do an internet search but oddly I couldn't find anywhere that explained how to dye an already dyed leather.

Looks like I'll be spending even more money then.

[MadZ]

would a dark shoe polish not work?? like a liquid type from kiwi or something of the like

cheers

Madz

[OurJud]

would a dark shoe polish not work?? like a liquid type from kiwi or something of the like

cheers

Madz

Funny you should say that, MadZ. I was in Tesco Home today and picked up a tin of black Kiwi shoe polish, but it's the rub on type. Is that no good?

Also, watched a few vids on youtube showing how to make Vinegaroon by soaking metal scour pads in white vinegar for a few days and then dipping the leather in the strained liquid. The examples all used undyed leather, so I'm not sure how successful it would be on already dyed pieces. It also turns the leather jet black, rather than the dark brown I'm after.

[Rasputin]

Howz about this then..... http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/ALL-IN-ONE-Leather-Colourant-Repair-Recolour-Dye-Stain-Pigment-Paint-Colour-/271060005689?pt=UK_Crafts_Leathercraft_LE&var=&hash=item3f1c6f7339

[OurJud]

Oooh, thanks, Rasputin. I like the price too!

[MadZ]

Funny you should say that, MadZ. I was in Tesco Home today and picked up a tin of black Kiwi shoe polish, but it's the rub on type. Is that no good?

Also, watched a few vids on youtube showing how to make Vinegaroon by soaking metal scour pads in white vinegar for a few days and then dipping the leather in the strained liquid. The examples all used undyed leather, so I'm not sure how successful it would be on already dyed pieces. It also turns the leather jet black, rather than the dark brown I'm after.

the vinegar method might work but will smell like absolute junk for weeks, used some to stain some wood, try it on some oak and see what happens you get some cool effects, from purple to black like you mention

[OurJud]

Yes, worth considering. Although I think that by the time I've bought the steel scrubs and vinegar I'll have spent almost as much as I would have on one of those all-in-one dyes Rasputin linked to.

Apparently you can use water rather than vinegar - just so long as you get the rust of the steel.

[MadZ]

dont go buying steel use old nails from old pallets and that sort of thing, water will work just takes longer