How to Dye Shoes

Dyeing shoes is one of our favorite transformations. That’s because you can create something incredibly custom and unique. Whether it’s a pair of shoes that you wish came in a specific color (and doesn’t) or shoes you own that you are just sick of, use Rit to dye them to the color of your choosing.

Important Notes

Shoes
For best results, we recommend dyeing canvas shoes or silk bridal type shoes. We do not recommend dyeing leather shoes. The only exception would be Uggs® Sheepskin boots.

Color
If the shoes you are dyeing are white or off white, then you should be able to achieve true color. If the shoes have an existing color, then you can overdye them with a darker color. If you are looking to: (a) dye a dark pair of shoes a lighter color or (b) completely change the color of a pair of shoes from one color to another (such as from purple to blue), then you could try removing the color using Rit Color Remover However, only use the sink or bucket method. We would only suggest trying this with canvas shoes. However, we cannot guarantee you will be able to remove all of the color.

Patterns and Logos
If the shoes you are dyeing have a pattern or logo, the color you use will mix with the existing color(s) in the fabric and create new colors. In other words, the rules of color mixing apply. When selecting a color, think about how it will mix with the colors in the pattern. For example, if you were to use a blue dye on a white pair of shoes with a pink flower pattern, the pink flowers will turn purplish (blue and pink make purple) while the rest of the shoes will dye blue. Even if you were to overdye the patterned shoes with a dark color, you may find that the color will appear lighter along the patterned area.

Bleach Stains and Sun Damage
Sun and bleach actually damage fabric, making it very difficult to dye. You could try using Rit Color Remover on the entire shoe. If you are going to try this, only use the sink or bucket method. We would only suggest doing this with canvas shoes. However, we cannot guarantee successful results.

Select Your Method

For general dye projects (or to dip dye), chose the immersion method below.

If you are dyeing delicate shoes (such as silk bridal shoes), choose the brush method below