How to get gradient sunburst look on leather

[wakeupBill]

I’m trying to figure out how to get that cool gradient effect on leather. you know, where the edges are dark but the middle stays lighter. I think it's called a sunburst finish?
Is this something you do with an airbrush, or do you guys have a more natural way to do this?

Also, do I need a specific type of dye or some kind of resist to keep the center from getting too dark?
I’d love some tips on how to blend the colors without it looking blotchy.

 

[banananana]

Have you tried using an airbrush for a flawless factory look? You can achieve that fade by hand and it will give the leather much more character.

 

[Waffl3s]

You can just dye the whole piece once and let it bone dry for about 48 hours. Then, go back in with more dye around the edges, dragging your applicator from the edge toward the center and lifting as you go to blend it out.

Once it’s dry and you've got the gradient where you want it, just cut the pattern that you like

 

[fluffyman]

I’m trying to figure out how to get that cool gradient effect on leather. you know, where the edges are dark but the middle stays lighter. I think it's called a sunburst finish?
Is this something you do with an airbrush, or do you guys have a more natural way to do this?

Also, do I need a specific type of dye or some kind of resist to keep the center from getting too dark?
I’d love some tips on how to blend the colors without it looking blotchy.

Have you tried dampening the leather slightly or applying a light coat of oil before you start? The dry leather sucks up dye instantly and causes those splotches you mentioned

 

[Alan]

I’m trying to figure out how to get that cool gradient effect on leather. you know, where the edges are dark but the middle stays lighter. I think it's called a sunburst finish?
Is this something you do with an airbrush, or do you guys have a more natural way to do this?

Also, do I need a specific type of dye or some kind of resist to keep the center from getting too dark?
I’d love some tips on how to blend the colors without it looking blotchy.

Start light, build layers...sunburst looks great but it’s basically controlled patience with dye and blending.