We’ve noticed that our Dark Brown All-Purpose Dye has been flying off the shelves thanks to a particular TikTok trend. If you don’t believe us, just check out the #brownclothes or #dyingmyconverse (yes, we know it’s spelled wrong—blame it on autocorrect) hashtag.

And now that brown Converses are hard to come by, we’re here with a tutorial to help rock this trend. Since Converses are made of 100% cotton canvas, our All-Purpose Dyes are perfect for giving them new life. From Dark Brown and Cocoa Brown to Camel and Tan—we have plenty of shades for you to choose from. Don’t see the shade you’re looking for? Check out our Color Formulas to find the perfect match.

Supplies:

• Rit All-Purpose Liquid Dye
• Rit ColorStay Dye Fixative
• Electrical Tape (To Protect Soles)
• Measuring Cup and Spoon
• Paper Towels
• Gloves
• Dish Detergent
• Salt
• Container for Dyeing
• Plastic Table Cover

Time: 1 Hour

Difficulty: Beginner

• Before dyeing, remove any visible stains on the shoes and pre-wash in warm, soapy water without any fabric softener. This helps to remove any finishes that may interfere with dye absorption.
• Cover work area with plastic table cover and have paper towels handy to protect against any possible spills.
• Remove shoe insoles (if your shoes have them), laces and set aside.
• To protect the soles of your shoes from getting dyed, cover with electrical tape.
• Fill a plastic container or stainless steel sink with three gallons of hot water. The water should ideally be 140ºF. If tap water is not hot enough, heat water on the stove and add to the dyebath.
• Add 1 teaspoon of dish detergent to help promote level dyeing.
• Wearing rubber gloves, add 1/2 cup of well-shaken Rit All-Purpose Liquid Dye to the dyebath. If you are trying achieve a very dark or bold color, double the dye quantity.

• Mix well.
• Test color by dipping a paper towel into the dyebath. If color is too light, add more dye. If color is too dark, add more water.
• Wet the shoes you are going to be dyeing and dip them sole-side-up into the dyebath.

• When desired color is achieved, remove from dyebath. Fabric will look darker when wet and will dry lighter.

• To enhance the color and reduce color bleeding, use Rit ColorStay Dye Fixative immediately after dyeing and before washing, following these instructions. We recommend doing this with the spray method.
• Rinse in cool water until rinse water begins to run clear.
• Wash in warm water with a mild detergent, rinse and dry.