Leather crafting Singapore is a popular hobby, and for good reason – it’s a great way to make use of scrap leather and turn it into something beautiful. One of the most important steps in leather crafting is staining, which can be used to change the color or appearance of your project. In this article, we will discuss the different types of stains and dyes available in Singapore, as well as how to use them correctly.
Types of Stains
In general, there are two types of stains used in leather crafting Singapore – oil-based and water-based. Oil-based stains have a solvent-based, while water-based stains have a water base. Solvent-base dyes often penetrate the surface better, while water-based dyes tend to dry more evenly. While both dyes can be used equally well for staining, some crafters prefer one type over the other.
Water-Based Dye:
Water-based dye has a mild odor and cleans up easily with soap and water – so you won’t feel as guilty working with it indoors or out! However, because this dye generally requires heat setting (with an or hairdryer) it is not suggested for curved surfaces (like jackets, shoes, etc.)
Water-based dyes come in a variety of colors and shades for leather crafting Singapore. However, it is important to remember that because water-based dye needs heat setting to dry evenly on leather, certain colors may end up fading and bleeding when washed. Typical brands available at craft stores include Fiebing’s and Leather World.
Oil-Based Dye:
Oil-based dye has a strong odor but can be used on any surface – including paper! Some crafters argue that oil-based dyes produce richer colors than water-based dyes do. Oil base dyes require heat setting but typically last longer than water-based dyes.
Oil-based dyes are typically more expensive than water-based dyes. However, they can be more difficult to source locally here in Singapore.
Stamping Ink:
Stamping ink is used for printing patterns on leather. Some stamping inks require heat setting (with an iron) while others do not. Stamping ink is available in both water-based and oil-based varieties. This type of dye comes in many colors, including metallic shades.
Stencil Cream:
Stencil cream is a thick cream that can be applied onto the leather with stencils to give designs, symbols, words, or phrases relief on the surface of the leather. Stencil cream is also available in both water-based and oil-based varieties. Stencil creams are best used on vegetable-tanned, veg-tanned, or drum-dyed leather that has been sealed with a light coat of neatsfoot oil.
How to Stain Leather with Dye
So how do you go about staining leather? Good news – it’s pretty simple! If you are using Fiebing’s or Leather World dyes, just follow these steps:
1) Clean off your project surface. You can use an old toothbrush or a slightly damp sponge to remove any dirt – just be careful not to soak the leather! When you are finished, allow the surface to completely dry before continuing.
2) Shake up your dye well. The best way to do this is by inserting the cap into the hole of the tin and turning it a few times. Make sure to do this for a minute or two – all the dye particles should be completely mixed within the liquid.
3) Apply your dye with either a sponge, an old paintbrush, or even just a paper towel! Leather World dyes have been designed to work as quickly as possible, so they will dry in less than an hour. That means you can do one side of the project, flip it over and do the other (and then apply another coat!), all within the same day.
Dyeing vs Staining
When dyeing leather, color is absorbed into the leather’s fibers to change its original color. Staining simply colors the surface of the leather without penetrating it too deeply. Because dyeing requires more time and effort than staining, some crafters choose to dye their pieces before adding color with stains.
Leather Stain vs Leather Paint
Leather stain is most often used on vegetable-tanned or veg-tanned leather because it does not damage the color underneath like traditional paint would do. However, paints can be used with any type of leather (including chrome-tanned when leather crafting Singapore) as long as you use a protective coating over freshly painted surfaces about two weeks after application!
Oil-Based vs Water-Based
Both oil-based and water-based dyes come in a variety of colors. However, it is important to remember that because oil-based dye needs heat setting to dry evenly on leather, certain colors may end up fading and bleeding when washed. Water-based dyes are generally safer for use with kids because the dye does not have any toxic fumes or irritants.
Conclusion
The products and processes we’ve discussed today will help you get started with your leather crafting journey (leather crafting Singapore). Whether it is dying or staining, remember that the goal is to achieve a beautiful finish for your product. Experimentation and practice are key components of success in any craft!
