Keep in mind that many shoes have been treated with a surface finish during the manufacturing process making it difficult for the shoe to absorb a new dye. [2] X Research source If your test dye doesn’t set it might have a surface finish on it.
If you decide that you want your shoelaces to be dyed remove them from your shoes and add them in the dye mixture on their own to ensure an even dye.
If you have removable insoles its best to exclude them from the dying process as they could become misshapen.
Pour the water from the pot very carefully into the sink/bucket as not to splash yourself with hot water.
The dye can stain the vessel you are using during the dyeing process so be sure to use a bucket or sink that can get dirty. Also be advised that your mixing spoon will be dyed in the process so be sure to use a mixing spoon that you don’t mind getting dye on.
You can use any kind of dish detergent you use to wash dishes with. Be sure to avoid making bubbles from stirring the detergent too fast.
Your shoes don’t need to be completely saturated with water at this point. You just want to make sure they are a little damp. Be sure to wet the entire shoe, even the inside, so that the dye fully absorbs into the shoe.
The temperature of the dyebath is hot! Be cautious when lowering your shoes into the mixture as to not burn yourself.
For example, if you are dyeing your shoes blue and you want them to have a rich, dark blue appearance you can leave them in the dyebath for a longer amount of time. If you wish to dye your shoes a lighter shade of blue leave them in the dyebath for a shorter amount of time. Remember that you can always check the color saturation of your shoes during the dyeing process by carefully pulling them out and holding them over the the dyebath to judge. If you decide you want your shoes to be darker, slip them back into the dyebath.
Avoid leaving your shoes dripping wet as any leftover dye can stain.
If you have a hairdryer handy you can use it to dry the insides of your shoes or any other hard to dry places.
