Vegetable tanned leather

[ihuntsnook]

I have a cheap possibles bag from Cabelas. In the most recent CLA magazine, they had an article about dying a bag black with ferric oxide made by dissolving steel wool in vinegar. Said it works best on vegetable tanned leather. Question being, is that the most common method of tanning leather. Just asking before I try it.

 

[rafterob]

Vegetable tanned is what is commonly sold for carving/stamping. It is a buff/beige color and stiffer than most other tanned leathers. Most oil tanned leathers are darker in color and more supple. Vegetable tan readily accepts dyes or (most importantly for carving) water.

 

[David W.]

I have a cheap possibles bag from Cabelas. In the most recent CLA magazine, they had an article about dying a bag black with ferric oxide made by dissolving steel wool in vinegar. Said it works best on vegetable tanned leather. Question being, is that the most common method of tanning leather. Just asking before I try it.

The "rust" stain is a very good dye for veg tanned leather. Yes, it was used back in the time along with other natural stains. Walnut hull also is a nice dark dye.

 

[longrifle78]

Your bag is most likely made from chrome tan, but the vinegar stain is easy to make so make up some and test it out.

 

[ihuntsnook]

Thanks longrifle. I will try it.