Some tips kindly supplied by John Jameson of Cotswold Bookbinders

• The dyes can be mixed to achieve a different shade.
• Fiebing’s spirit dyes are quite strong but can be thinned. As a solvent or thinner, use methylated spirits. It doesn’t have to be IMS, you can use the ordinary pink methylated spirits as the pink colouring is so dilute it has no effect on the outcome. Even pastel shades can be achieved if diluted correctly.
• Do dampen the leather before dyeing.
• Ensure you have plenty of arm room to allow you to work reasonably fast. Use a large wad of well-charged cotton wool in broad strokes with a circular motion to prevent streaking. Don’t dab it on.
• If streaks appear or you miss a bit, don’t attempt to touch up. Better to use a more dilute dye and give a second coat which will hide the earlier imperfections and make a richer colour.
• An alternative method of applying is to use an airbrush. Really good for giving an even finish especially for larger areas, it may be advisable to thin the dye further and build up layers of dye slowly. Do not set the spray too fine otherwise much will be lost through evaporation. Make a spray booth from a large cardboard box but try to use in a well-ventilated area.
• Spirit dyes evaporate quickly, therefore turn the leather over after dyeing to encourage the spirit to evaporate through it pulling the dye further in.
• Methylated spirits is miscible with water so you can try to get the best of both worlds by mixing to aid penetration.
• When dry, buff the surface to remove excess surface dye to give brighter results and finish with some form of protective wax polish.
• It is easy to contaminate a spirit dye and alter its colour, perhaps by using an applicator which had previously been used with a different colour. It is a good plan to decant a small quantity into a small container and use from that to ensure the whole bottle is not inadvertently contaminated.