How to keep blue leather bright?

[jo_cross08]

I'm still learning leathercraft but I've done a few projects over the years. recently tried making a custom blue wallet using water-based Eco-Flo dye, and while the color looked great at first, it started fading after just a few weeks of use. I sealed it with a basic acrylic finish, but it didn't hold up well. Has anyone had success keeping lighter colors like blue from fading or rubbing off? I'm open to switching brands or even trying paint if it's more reliable.

Thanks in advance for any tips!

 

[leatherb055]

hi @jo_cross08 I think you need a tougher finish. A basic acrylic finish is okay for decorative items, but for a wallet, you need something that can handle a lot of friction.
I recommend a product like Resolene or a high quality acrylic finisher like one from Angelus.
Apply it in a few very thin coats with a sponge or airbrush. A good finish will seal in the color and protect it from daily use.

 

[Dmitri_Yuriev]

I’ve done custom bags with sky-blue leathers that held color well. Key was layering a good leather finish + UV guard + regular conditioning. I used a product called Gtechniq L1 Leather Guard which claims protection against UV, dye transfer, abrasion. Also, test on scrap first then leave it out for a few days.

 

[midNight]

I'd prefer using acrylic leather paints for bright colors because they stay vibrant and resist rubbing off better. I had tried using water based dyes but it is trickier than I anticipated. It tends to sit more on the surface and wear faster.