Ferric Acetate a.k.a Vinegarroon Dye

This update covers vinegarroon dye.

Related notes live on the Factory Five Cobra build hub.

Darkening the leather door straps

Why not regular black dye

First, my FFR Roadster comes with leather door straps. So I wanted them darker for the interior look. However, I did not want to dye the stitches. Therefore, regular black dye would not work. Then check this out!

Making ferric acetate vinegarroon dye

Cheap parts list

Also, this vinegarroon dye mix is simple and super cheap!

First, grab mason jar(s) https://amzn.to/3uDnmiY.

Next, use white vinegar, though apple cider works too https://amzn.to/3a9ADWW.

Then get 0000 steel wool, not a soapy Brillo pad https://amzn.to/3uH6tnw.

Also add plastic wrap https://amzn.to/3A5E2kc.

Meanwhile, keep coffee filters handy https://amzn.to/3lhw6IF.

Finally, use a paintbrush or foam brush https://amzn.to/3D6TM8q.

Besides that, give the mix a few days’ time.

Steps to create and apply

Next, follow these steps to create this.

1. Fill one of your jars with steel wool. I did about 1 steel wool pads in my 16 oz jar but depending on the size of your mason jar you can add more/less. You can also shred them up to create more surface area.
2. Fill the jar with vinegar, about 3/4ths full if it’s a smaller jar. Cover it up with plastic wrap and poke a few holes in it. This allows some of the gas to escape during the chemical process.
3. Make sure you put your jar somewhere that it’s warm, and away from noses – it can smell during the process. Also, protect the area around the jar in case you bump it or spill any of the mixture.
4. Now the patience kicks in – stir it every day to help get the bubbles to rise and mix the rust. Some say by 3 days it should be done. You should be getting a rusty brown color on your surface and more of a rust than a vinegar smell near the end.
5. I filtered the mixture 3 times with the coffee strainer, it’s still a cloudy mixture but you just want to remove the chunks!
6. Be sure to be in a ventilated area and wear some gloves! Paint away! You’ll notice an ashen, or brown tone, but it will get deep grey and after a few coats pretty darn black!
7. Some rinse with a baking soda wash, but I just rinsed the parts well with water. I’ll probably protect it with some mink oil or protectant! Looks darned good if you ask me!

Ultimately, hope you enjoy!

Still, vinegarroon dye gave me a deep black look.