Can I dye backpack fabric?

Only natural and synthetic fibers can be dyed. Natural fibers are plant fibers like cotton and silk and animal fibers like wool and down. Synthetic fibers are petroleum-based polymers like nylon and polyester.



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Avoid Dyeing These Items:
  • 100% polyester & 100% acrylic fabrics.
  • Waterproofed, scotch-guarded (or fabrics with any other special finishes)
  • Delicate dry-clean fabrics (that don't like hot water)
  • Items with permanent stains or bleach stains.
  • Fabric backed with rubber (or similar)
  • metal & glass.


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iDye Poly is virtually the only dye that will color polyester. In fact, it will color almost anything synthetic, including plastics and nylons, buttons, frisbee discs, Worbla & Thibra, 3D printed objects, toys, dolls, wigs, cleats, urethane coatings and more.

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To dip dye your backpack:
  1. Prepare the dye bath following the manufacturer's instructions.
  2. Fully submerge the backpack in the dye solution.
  3. Stir gently to ensure even color distribution.
  4. Soak for the recommended time.
  5. Remove the backpack and rinse until the water runs clear.


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Hand Rubbing Technique
  1. Prepare your leather by cleaning and conditioning.
  2. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the dye.
  3. Dip a lint-free cloth into the dye and apply it to the leather in circular motions.
  4. Let the dye dry completely before applying another layer.


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It's definitely doable, but whenever I've spray painted backpacks two things have become apparent; you'll probably end up using more paint than you'd think, as the fabric absorbs it, and that much spray paint tends to make the fabric stiff and sort-of tacky feeling. Dying the pack with RIT dye might be a better option.

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If you decide that the color on your new bag isn't quite what you wanted I would recommend recoloring or dying your bag using any design technique that works best with this type of product. Leather can be colored in so many ways since there is an endless number of colors available when buying dye at craft stores!

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