Rit Dye

[woodwilldo]

Anyone have the site that tells ya how to use Ritdye to stain wood?

Thanks
Jesse

[Arizona Woods]

This page has some basic wood dyeing instructions. That may answer your questions.

[minowevie]

I am sure there was just a post on that. gosh. I don't know how to get there from hear. sorry, it was just in the last month or so. help folks. but wonted to let you know, I am watching. thanks for asking . your friend Evie

[Jim8Mad]

I have used the Rit Dye powder a few times and it's easier than you may think. I just followed the directions on the box and it worked fine. I take a small condiment sized bowl with about 3 or 4 ounces of water in it and boil it in the microwave (about 30 seconds is more than enough). I then pour in some of the dye powder and mix. Depending on how deep I want the color will determine how much powder I use. You're not going to get a really deep and dark color, but it comes out pretty nice. When I get the shade I want (test on a piece of scrap) I apply it with a foam brush and let it soak in. If you want to put color only on the face of the wood then do it before you cut. If you want it in the cuts then do it after you cut. But be aware that the end grain and inside cuts will absorb more dye then the surface. Also, since you are using hot water it will raise the grain on you probably more than standard finishes will so you will have do a bit more sanding.

Give it a go and post some pictures of what you do here so we can see how nice they come out.

[woodwilldo]

Just picked up the recent mag and see there is an area that talks about food coloring. Going to give it a try.

I would like to know, i know this could possibly fade, would it still fade if it is sealed?

also since you are not soaking the wood will it cause the grain to lift.


Jesse

[groverd]

i have been trying to figure out the Rit dye process. have not been happy with on my first couple tries. . . i used hot water, not boiling water. will try today with boiling water and see if that makes a difference. i will be putting it on pine. . .

[earlinjax]

Not sure what colors you folks are looking for but my suggestion would be to check out the leather dyes. I got a green to do some Christmas things that I liked. Also, the black is BLACK. We have a leather shop in town that carries all the colors. Toni and Sue got me started on them. I never used the water based leather dye as I am sure it would raise the grain. If you have chance, check them out.

Earl

[Jim8Mad]

I have always used boiling water for my dye. I also do a sample on a piece of scrap to determine if it is the right shade. If I want it darker I put in a bit more dye powder. If I want a nice deep color I will apply a few coats and let them soak in until I'm happy. As for raising the grain, it's not much of a problem for me as I usually do a really light and fine sanding after I apply most finished I use anyways. I haven't had a chance to use any leather dyes yet. I'm looking for a local retailer but I'm having no luck. I guess it's to the on-line stores for me.