Ever stared at a pair of perfectly good shoes, wishing they were just a different color? Maybe you bought a pair you love, but the color just isn’t quite right for your outfit. Or perhaps you found a fantastic pair on sale, but the shade is all wrong. It’s frustrating when your perfect shoes are stuck in the wrong color!
Choosing the right dye for your shoes can feel like a guessing game. You worry about the dye bleeding, the color looking patchy, or even ruining your favorite footwear completely. It’s tough to know which dye works best on leather versus canvas, or what will last through rain and wear. You want a vibrant, lasting change without the headache of a failed project.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what you need to know to pick the best shoe dye for your specific material and desired outcome. By the end, you will feel confident selecting a product that gives your shoes a stunning, professional-looking makeover. Ready to transform those tired treads into something brand new? Let’s dive into the world of shoe dyeing!
Top Dye For Shoes Recommendations
- Easy to Use – The process is super easy to follow. Simply add dye to hot water with 1 tsp of liquid dish detergent and submerge whatever fabric you want dyed until your desired shade of that color is achieved.
- Colors – We carry more than 30 vibrant colors to ensure no matter the desired color or project we have you covered.
- Creativity – Since we carry so many colors, why stop at just one? Create tie-dye patterns, splatter designs, or try to create your own techniques to really stand out.
- Sustainability – Rather than throw away that old shirt, or hide that faded blanket, why not rejuvenate it? Bring the colors back to life or start over entirely with a new color to extend the life of the fabric all around you.
- Components – Each kit includes an 8 oz. bottle of the color of your choice, as well as a pair of disposable Latex/Powder free plastic gloves to protect your skin from the dye.
- This heavily pigmented dye is excellent for restoring, customizing and transforming saddles, tack, shoes, belts, purses, wood and more.
- Dauber bottle
- Alcohol-based
- Professional grade
- Single 3 ounce jar with wool dauber
- WIDE APPLICATION: Our Angelus Black Acrylic leather paint is perfect for any smooth leather goods, such as leather shoes, sneakers, sofas, leather jackets, handbags, leather bags, wallets, & more.
- QUICK DRYING AND FLEXIBLE: Our black leather paint is quick to dry, flexible and will not crack or peel. Our paint has gone through years of testing to make sure its of the highest quality. Made right here in the USA since 1907.
- WATER-BASED FORMULA: Angelus Black Acrylic leather paint has water-based formula so its not hazardous and easy to clean up with soap and water! No nasty smells, and can be used to create so many things.
- NOT ONLY FOR SNEAKERS: This black leather paint works perfectly on any leather surface. It can be blended in to hide scuffs, customize, color, and More. You can use this on shoes, boots, sneakers, couches, chairs, briefcases, bags, purses, car seats, & More. We have almost 200 colors, and these can also be mixed to create even more colors! We also have mixers available to make it for canvas, t-shirts, & air brush as well.
- MADE IN USA: We have been proudly servicing and manufacturing the shoe & leather care industry in America for over 100 years. Our highest quality products, and customer service is what keeps us going. We aren't happy until you are.
- Deliver vibrant color to almost any type of fabric or fabric blend, including cotton, linen, silk, wool, rayon, ramie or nylon. This dye can even color wood, wicker, paper and cork
- Perfect for rejuvenating faded clothing, changing the color of apparel, shoes or accessories, coordinating home décor, hiding laundry accidents and so much more
- Get creative and create something unique with an easy dye technique, like an ombré, dip dyed, marbled, shibori or tie-dye pattern
- With 1,000+ color recipes available on Rit’s website, it is almost certain you’ll find the right color for your needs
- If dyeing fabric with 35% or more polyester, acrylic or acetate, use Rit DyeMore Synthetic Fiber Dye instead
- PERMANENT: Angelus Leather Dye is a permanent dye that is alcohol based and not water based. It is the most pigmented dye on the market today. If needed, it can also be diluted. Our dye penetrates deep into the leather for a permanent rich color
- DURABLE: Our Leather dressing will not crack, peel, or chip. These are easy to use, and no worries about it flaking or chipping off. It can take wear.
- VERSATILE: Angelus Leather Dyes are easily applied using many different methods, Apply dyes using a dye pen, paint brush, airbrush, sponge, rag, or a wool dauber applicator(included in package)
- MANY APPLICATIONS: Angelus Dye can be used for many different things including all smooth leather goods, bags, shoes, furniture, chairs, boots, woodworking, & Saddlery..MADE IN USA: Angelus Leather dye has been proudly made in America for over 100 years. With over 39 colors to choose from, you can be sure to pick your exact match. If you are changing colors, we always suggest looking into preparer and deglazer to take the top finish off for better results
- International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions.
- RESTORES WORN SHOES & BOOTS – Bring life back to faded footwear with our black shoe dye and dye for boots. Whether you’re fixing scuffed leather or reviving suede, our formula delivers deep, rich color for a like-new finish.
- LONG-LASTING, PERMANENT COLOR – Our premium formula is a black shoe dye permanent solution that penetrates deep for color that won’t rub off or peel. Ideal as a shoe dye for leather, this is a permanent fix for scuffs, stains, and wear on leather or suede.
- ALL-IN-ONE SHOE COLOR REPAIR – Includes applicator for mess-free use and functions as a complete leather shoe dye kit. Use as black leather paint for shoes, black leather stain, or even shoe polish dye, perfect for full recolors or touch-ups.
- MULTI-SURFACE & MULTI-PURPOSE – Works as a leather dye for purses, boot dye, black suede dye for shoes, or shoe dye leather repair. Revive auto interiors, furniture, handbags, and more with this versatile leather dye black formula.
- TRUSTED FOR HERITAGE GRADE RESTORATION – Made in the USA with premium ingredients for superior results in shoe repair leather, and leather shoe repair. Rely on our legacy formula for trusted performance across high-end leather goods.
- Spray paint for fabric. Aerosol Fabric Spray available in a 3-oz. spray can. Works great on natural and synthetic fabrics. Perfect for all over color or using with stencils
- Dries quickly and soft to the touch. Colors can be blended on fabric
- Even coverage - won't drip or splatter
- Permanent and machine washable - a great spray paint for clothes! Works best on light-colored fabrics
- VERSATILE: Revitalize, brighten, and restore suede and roughout leathers with Fiebing's Suede Dye, the renowned penetrating dye trusted worldwide.
- RENEW: Effortlessly brighten and restore faded suede and roughout leather goods such as shoes, boots, handbags, and leathercraft projects.
- PERMANENT: Achieve long-lasting color results on suede and nappy leather creations, crafts, and clothing with a wide range of available colors.
- FLEXIBLE: Enjoy a dye that remains flexible when dry, ensuring it won't crack, peel, or rub off once applied.
- EASY APPLICATION: Each 4 oz bottle includes a single wool dauber applicator for easy and precise dye application.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Perfect Shoe Dye
Want to give your old sneakers a fresh new look? Dyeing your shoes is a fun and affordable way to customize your footwear. But before you dive in, you need the right dye! This guide helps you pick the best product for your project.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for shoe dye, look for these important features:
- Material Compatibility: Not all dyes work on all shoe materials. Check the label! Dyes made for leather might not stick to canvas or synthetic materials.
- Color Saturation and Depth: Good dyes offer rich, deep color in just one or two coats. Look for reviews that mention how vibrant the final color is.
- Durability and Fade Resistance: You want the color to last. Choose dyes that promise resistance to water and fading from sunlight.
- Ease of Application: Some dyes come with brushes or sponges included. Easy-to-use kits save you time and mess.
Important Materials: What to Dye and What to Buy
The material of your shoe hugely affects which dye you buy.
Natural Materials vs. Synthetics
- Natural Leather and Canvas: These materials soak up dye very well. Look for dyes specifically labeled for leather or fabric. These usually give the best results.
- Suede and Nubuck: These need special dyes. Standard liquid dyes often make suede stiff or blotchy. Seek out dyes made just for suede and nubuck.
- Synthetic Materials (Plastics, Vinyl): Dye often struggles to stick to plastic or synthetic mesh. If your shoes are mostly plastic, you might need a specialized paint or marker instead of traditional dye.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one dye better than another? It comes down to preparation and the dye itself.
Factors Improving Quality:
- Prep Work: Always clean your shoes thoroughly before dyeing. Removing dirt and old finishes lets the new color bond better.
- High-Quality Pigments: Dyes made with high-quality pigments last longer and resist cracking. Premium dyes usually cost a little more, but the results show the difference.
- Proper Sealing: Many top-tier dyes recommend or include a finisher or sealant. This final coat locks the color in place and protects it.
Factors Reducing Quality:
- Dyeing Dark to Light: You almost never succeed when dyeing a dark shoe a light color, like black to white. The original color blocks the new dye.
- Uneven Application: Applying too much dye in one spot or not working quickly enough can cause streaks and uneven patches.
- Ignoring Instructions: Skipping steps, like not letting the dye dry completely between coats, ruins the final look.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use your newly colored shoes. This affects your dye choice.
Everyday Wear vs. Custom Art
- Everyday Wear: If you plan to wear the shoes often, choose a durable, flexible dye that resists scuffing. Look for dyes that stay soft after drying.
- Display or Light Use: If you are only dyeing shoes for a costume or display, you might choose a cheaper, brighter dye that is less focused on long-term flexibility.
- Color Matching: If you need a very specific shade, look for brands that let you mix colors, similar to mixing paint.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Shoe Dye
Q: Can I dye leather shoes black with any dye?
A: No. You must use a dye specifically made for leather. Fabric dye will not stick correctly to leather.
Q: Will the dye rub off on my socks?
A: High-quality dyes that are properly set and sealed should not rub off. Poorly applied or cheap dyes might transfer, especially when new or wet.
Q: How long does the dyeing process usually take?
A: Total time varies, but plan for several hours. This includes cleaning, drying, applying multiple coats, and letting the final sealant dry completely.
Q: Can I use regular fabric dye on canvas shoes?
A: Yes, many regular fabric dyes work well on canvas. Ensure the canvas is 100% cotton or a high natural fiber blend for the best color absorption.
Q: What is the hardest material to dye successfully?
A: Synthetic materials like plastic or heavily coated patent leather are the hardest. They often resist dye completely.
Q: Do I need to seal the dye after I finish coloring?
A: Sealing is highly recommended! Sealant protects the color from water damage and prevents cracking as you walk in the shoes.
Q: What happens if I apply the dye too thick?
A: Applying dye too thickly usually causes the dye to crack, look uneven, or make the shoe material stiff and crunchy.
Q: Can I dye white shoes a different color?
A: Yes, dyeing white shoes is the easiest project! White accepts almost any color very well.
Q: How do I remove shoe dye if I mess up?
A: Removing dye is difficult. You might need specialized leather stripper or strong rubbing alcohol, but this can damage the shoe material.
Q: Are shoe dyes waterproof after they dry?
A: Most good shoe dyes become water-resistant once fully dried and sealed. They handle light rain well, but you should still avoid soaking them.