Fashion & Style Shoes & Accessories

How To Dye Shoes Green

Published at 03/07/2012 19:08:36

Introduction

The reasons for changing colors of shoes are plenty from the unavailability of the shoe pair in the hue that you want to simply a change of scenery by reviving the tone of a favorite pair of shoes. Whatever the reason, there are also many colors that you can choose from yellow and purple to white and green. The latter is not such a popular color and it is certainly not easy to find green shoes at anytime of the year. For this reason, dyeing shoes is an obvious answer and it is an exercise that you can do at home providing you are careful and willing to take the risk.

Step 1

Get the green dye that you want from the store. Shoe repair shops, home improvement stores, and groceries usually carry the product. If you are thinking of green shoes, remember that there are many shades of green and that it is a primary color. By mixing yellow and blue, you'll also be able to make a green color for your green shoes. Variations of the green color include forest, pine, emerald, midnight, jade, bright, and sea green.

Step 2

However, the best option is just to get the bottle of dye that you want or that you can use easily. There are several types of green shoes dye that you can buy and it all depends on the fabric of your shoes. If canvas and cotton are the main components of your shoes such as a pair of sneakers or canvass shoes, then you have to get the corresponding product to make green shoes. The Rit Dye has several colors available plus its website has several techniques to make those green shoes.

Step 3

Note that not all shoes can be dyed using fabric dye. Examples of shoe materials that will not absorb the dye are those made of polyester, vinyl, acrylic, acetate, and fiberglass. In addition, it is difficult to make green shoes if the fabric on your footwear is for cold washing only.

Step 4

That said, you have to take account that your sneakers or canvass shoes will shrink when you dye and turn them to green shoes. After you have bought the right dye for fabric or canvas shoes, read the manufacturer's instructions. Boil water and pour the necessary amount to turn your pair into green shoes. Dyeing takes effect when the shoes are immersed in the hot water.

Step 5

If you are concerned about shoe shrinkage, simply paint on the dye with a brush and apply several coatings to make your green shoes. Allow the shoes to dry, usually at least 24 hours. When you are not sure that the color is the right shade that you want, test it on an old fabric to see how the dye is absorbed and how it turns out.

Step 6

However, turning your leather boots, suede pumps or loafers into green shoes will not work with this particular method. You need to get a special dye product for leather shoes. Usually, you have to remove the old color or finish first by using an acetone or a deglazer. Most leather dye products are sold as kits and include the applicator, dye and acetone. Strip the original color off and apply the dye using the applicator. Wait until it dries completely before applying a second coat. Kiwi is a good example of brands selling these products.

Tips

If you don't want to ruin your shoes, take them to the shoe shop and have a professional dye your shoes green for you. It will probably turn out cheaper than getting another pair of shoes to replace the ones you destroyed while experimenting with dyeing.

Sources and Citations

Rit Website

Cobbler Supplies

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