Leather Dyeing: Find the Right Color for Your Project

Getting the Right Dye

Standard Colors

We offer a library of standard dye colors for projects where an exact match isn't the priority. Choose your kit size and color from the dropdown. Keep in mind that screen rendering is an approximation. If color precision matters for your project, a custom order is the better path. Sizing guidance is on each product page.

Custom Colors

For anything outside our standard library, we treat it as a custom order. Over the years we've built up an extensive OEM color library. We've matched colors like Ferrari Saddle more times than we can count. That said, leather varies between vehicles and even between production runs, so having a color on file doesn't always mean a perfect match out of the box.

If we don't have your color on file, or if you want the absolute closest match and you're particular about it, send us a 1x1 inch (25x25mm) swatch cut from an unexposed area. Underneath a seat cushion is ideal. We'll match from there.

Either way, get in touch and we'll figure out the right approach for your project.

How to Dye Leather

Dyeing leather well isn't complicated, but preparation is everything. The cleaning and surface prep steps are where most dye jobs succeed or fail. Patience here pays off in the finished result.

What You'll Need

Beyond the products in your kit, have these on hand before you start: safety glasses and disposable gloves, 400 to 600 grit sandpaper, 1,000 grit sandpaper, white paper towels without color imprints, a bowl with a lid, and a small acrylic paint brush.

Surface Cleaning

Step 1: Vacuum

Vacuum the surface to remove large particles of dirt, paying particular attention to seams, folds, and cracks.

Step 2: Apply Rejuvenator

Apply Leatherique Rejuvenator liberally, about two to four ounces per seat, massaging it well into all surfaces and natural folds. Allow 24 hours to soak in. This rehydrates the leather and draws embedded dirt, skin oils, and contaminants to the surface. Apply more in areas showing high absorption. If the surface becomes tacky, that's the Rejuvenator doing its job.

Step 3: Clean with Prestine Clean

Apply a small amount of Prestine Clean with a soft cloth to remove everything the Rejuvenator has lifted. Let it stand for a few minutes, then buff with a fresh clean cloth.

Surface Preparation

Surface prep, along with cleaning, is the most critical part of the process. Don't rush it. The dye will not compensate for surface irregularities. Whatever is on the leather when you start applying color is what you'll see when you're done.

Step 4: Light Sanding

Pour a small amount of Leatherique Prepping Agent into a bowl. Using 400 to 600 grit sandpaper, lightly wet sand the leather to smooth out minor surface irregularities. Wipe clean as you go with paper towels. A few things to keep in mind: don't sand hard enough to create suede or obliterate the grain. Make sure old dye is broken down and any previous silicone, wax, or oil residue is fully removed. If you're doing a color change, remove as much of the old dye as possible without damaging the leather.

Step 5: Crack Filling (Optional)

Apply Leatherique Crack Filler into cracks, minimizing contact with the surrounding surface. Allow at least 20 minutes between applications and refill as needed. If you're working around a hole rather than a crack, a mechanical repair will be necessary before filling.

Dye Application

Step 6: Apply the Dye

Work in an area between 70 and 85°F (21 to 30°C) with low humidity. Pour all the dye into your bowl and stir thoroughly. Some pigments settle over time. Start with a small, inconspicuous area to get a feel for the product. Using your acrylic brush, apply thin, even coats. Two thin coats will always outperform one thick one. Begin with seams, piping, and edges, let them dry, then move to broader areas. Brush in all directions rather than back and forth, and don't stop in the middle of a panel. Apply a second coat as needed. Color changes will require at least two coats. Clean brushes immediately with soap and hot water.

Step 7: Buffing

Allow the project to sit untouched for 48 hours. Then buff with a soft, lint-free cloth to bring up a natural luster and remove any excess pigment. Minor brush strokes or imperfections can be addressed with 1,500 grit dry sandpaper.

Step 8: Ongoing Maintenance

Regular use of Leatherique Rejuvenator and Prestine Clean will keep your leather moisturized, supple, and clean long after the dye job is done.

For the complete instructions, see the Leatherique Dye Instructions: Full Version.