To Dye For

Check out my new purple hand bag. 

 It was a rather mundane shade of white last week. Whilst I love vintage clobber I don't feel the need to treat my clothes like museum pieces. I have no qualms with chopping off hems & sleeves or dyeing something a completely new colour. For me it makes far more sense to make something wearable and work with the rest of my wardrobe. Clothes are for wearing, not for stroking.

1960s psychedelic mini dress (£3.60, eBay), Antique Indian tribal collar (inherited), vintage Ackery of London handbag (50p, flea market)

Fancy trying a home dye job? As promised here's that leather dyeing tutorial for you.

You'll need an old leather bag, rubber gloves, plenty of newspaper, a scouring pad and some leather dye. I don't usually use Tarrago but I fancied a violet handbag and my preferred brand, Dylon, only do navy blue, brown and black.

Gently buff the surface of your bag with white spirit applied with a scouring pad to remove any dirt.

Allow to dry for a few minutes.

Next, using a small brush (provided in the kit), apply the dye to the stitching, handles and any surface scratches of your bag.

Add a few drops of dye to the sponge provided and apply to the rest of your bag's surface in light circular movements.

When the bag is covered put aside and apply a second coat when the first application is fully dry.

You may need up to three coats to reach your desired shade. 

Leather dye can be found at most independent cobblers and haberdashery stores. I pay £3.95 for a kit which is enough to transform a handbag or a pair of shoes. 

Good luck and happy dyeing!

Check out my friend Glee's post on her blog today, it's all about me!
There's also a feature on Gerry's web zine, here.  I'm honoured.