Die Techniques, How do you do it?

[ballncap]

I have died several custom bike seats I've made using a small spray gun that I use for modelling and for paint on motorcycle tanks some years ago. For leather work I have used the daubers. On large areas this can become streaky.   

What techniques do you use?

[Massive]

With some large jobs you can use a tank.  Many of us use vinagaroon to dye black.  And most of us can afford a tank of that.

For smaller stuff, or when using expensive dyes, the suggested method is to use a high density foam pad to apply the stain.  The idea is very similar to using daubers, but the foam holds a lot of dye so you don't get the streaks you might get with a less consistent media with less dye onboard.  There are other devices that carry a lot of media, and pay it out evenly.  The Tandy sponges are just the standard item.

In addition to that, you need to know your  basics: is the leather finished, or contaminated; what kind of stain is best for the application; does it work better with pre-wetting of the leather; how best to apply and finish it; at what stage to apply the finish; etc...

[Slowhand Bob]

For applications that are done on single color projects I use small plastic tubs as submerging tanks.  For larger projects that will use two or more dye colors I use wool pads where a true monotone  is desired for each color.  I also apply the dyes when I am working on thin open backed leather as they need more of a controlled application.  The daubers are saved for small pieces or contrasting edge applications.  For some final touch ups I frequently use chisel, and or medium, tip Sharpie pens.  Not all dyes are created equal and some work with certain techniques better than others. 

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