Help a novice? I would like to dye some boots.

[vermifuge]

I don't know if this is the most appropriate forum for this question and I know I'm new here but I did a quick look around and I see some very knowledgeable people.  Perhaps you can prevent me from making a very expensive mistake.  I found some leather boots that I like very much but I would prefer it if the leather was black.

I can provide a picture but I am worried about a few things. The leather is smooth like a suede or nubuck but still enough to hold the shape of the toe (and soft around the ankles to maintain flexibility when walking.  I don't know if they have been water proofed and I do not know what the stitching is made of.

Should I use a Water, Alcohol or Oil based dye?  Will is soften the toe too much?  Will it penetrate the stitching? (I don't want black boots and brown stitching)

Please forgive my ignorance.  I am new to this and my only experience was to apply die to the leather of my office chair.  I used a Tandy leather dye that worked well but never really penetrated the stitching of the leather.

[St. George]

If you're buying from a retailer - just ask for them to order a pair in Black.

Black is a most effective dye - in pretty much any form - but it will 'not' color nylon stitching well.

If the boots featured are the ones you're thinking of dyeing - you're not going to be happy with your results.

If you have a Tandy store nearby - they'd be the ones to ask, since they're more than familiar with dyeing techniques - as is 'any' good shoe/boot repairman.

Scouts Out!

[vermifuge]

If you're buying from a retailer - just ask for them to order a pair in Black.

Black is a most effective dye - in pretty much any form - but it will 'not' color nylon stitching well.

If the boots featured are the ones you're thinking of dyeing - you're not going to be happy with your results.

If you have a Tandy store nearby - they'd be the ones to ask, since they're more than familiar with dyeing techniques - as is 'any' good shoe/boot repairman.

Scouts Out!

I did ask and although they offer other boots in black these ones only come in brown.  Yes the ones in the picture are what I was hoping to dye.  Sadly the Tandy in my area has closed and there's not much in the order shoe repair.  Most people have disposable shoes these days and never think about having then recreated when they can get another cheap pair for $20.

Thanks for the tips though

[Major 2]

I have to ask , really none of my Business, but your not planning their use as CAS boots are you ? 

Fiebings Dye will turn them black but if they were treated to waterproof ,I'm unsure of the harmonious outcome.
Some better boots come with a sample patch of leather ( sometimes with the Brand ) You could test that piece.


FYI
Marshall Will Wingam
sent me the formula of  VINEGAR BLACK (aka Vinegaroon - these are original old formulas)

For giving color to the grain of leather there is no blacking that will at all compare with the well known vinegar black. This may be made in various ways. The simplest, and, without doubt, the best, is to procure shavings from an iron turner and cover them with pure cider vinegar; heat up and set aside for a week or two, then heat again and set in a cool place for two weeks; pour off the vinegar, allow it to stand for a few days, and draw off and cork up in bottles. This will keep for a long time, and, while producing a deep black on leather, will not stain the hands.
Instead of iron shavings you can use steel wool & white vinegar . To use the steel wool burn off the oil first - I dip it in acetone and use a propane/blow torch and light it off in an old pan with a lid, just in case you need to put the flame out. Take all precautions and it will work fine.

[vermifuge]

I have to ask , really none of my Business, but your not planning their use as CAS boots are you ? 

Fiebings Dye will turn them black but if they were treated to waterproof ,I'm unsure of the harmonious outcome.
Some better boots come with a sample patch of leather ( sometimes with the Brand ) You could test that piece.


FYI
Marshall Will Wingam
sent me the formula of  VINEGAR BLACK (aka Vinegaroon - these are original old formulas)

Believe it or not I actually read the sticky threads and all that other wonderful information.  I was blow away by all the talent in this forum.  That's why I commented that this probably wasn't the most appropriate forum, but defiantly very talented.  I do not intend to use these for CAS.   I just like the boot but want them in black.  I don't think the "vintage" method will give me the coverage I am looking for.  I just want a nice dark black.

The boots pictured above are Danner's a company known for quality work boots.  I suppose if I ask for a leather scrap from the factory they might send me one.  But they seemed unwilling to make one for me in black custom.

Thanks for your time!

[Major 2]

I agree, the Vinegar method would be impractical...
only posted it as an side though...

I asked about the use because , locally we have a shooter that wears Tennie Lama's...
If you have not seen these , they are Running shoe soled & laced western stitched top. 
He states " foot problems  and can't wear Western boots."
He was allowed, the concideration...

[vermifuge]

I agree, the Vinegar method would be impractical...
only posted it as an side though...

I asked about the use because , locally we have a shooter that wears Tennie Lama's...
If you have not seen these , they are Running shoe soled & laced western stitched top. 
He states " foot problems  and can't wear Western boots."
He was allowed, the concideration...

Funny.  The diving force behind me seeking out some better footwear was due to foot problems.  I stated to develop Plantar Fasciitis with my old sneakers and such.  But I digress.  I still appreciate the suggestion I actually really like the look of that vintage dye and might try it some day just for fun. 

[Major 2]

I'll email the information about it

[Marshal Will Wingam]

Here's the link to the thread Nolan Sackett posted on how to do the Vinegar Black. Remember that some leathers don't take it well. It acts on the tannic acid in the leather and if it's chrome tanned or such, there isn't any for the vinegar black to work on.

http://www.cascity.com/forumhall/index.php/topic,11991.0.html

[vermifuge]

Here's the link to the thread Nolan Sackett posted on how to do the Vinegar Black. Remember that some leathers don't take it well. It acts on the tannic acid in the leather and if it's chrome tanned or such, there isn't any for the vinegar black to work on.

http://www.cascity.com/forumhall/index.php/topic,11991.0.html

Thanks Marshal! your sticky thread had a lot of great links too.  i found all your posts very informative.  sorry to bust in with an off topic thread.  Like i said i was impressed by the wealth of information and what looks to be  pool of very talented people.

Oh, and for the record.  I happen to be the "proud" owner of 3 black walnut trees.  So that should help.  I never had a use for the walnuts and they should be getting ready to drop in the next few weeks. 

[Marshal Will Wingam]

We're glad to help, vermifuge. Any leather question is on topic here.

I'm keeping my eye on a friend's walnut trees right now for the same reason. I'll make up a good batch this year.