Hello,
I am thinking about dyeing a lightweight linen-cotton blend trench coat that is coated with weather-resistant polyurethane. Will a standard Rit dye work if the material is treated with polyurethane? The coat is a stone color and I’d like to dye it light pink.
Thank you for your help!
-ms

Dear Mary,
Sorry, I don’t think you can dye this coat at all. The polyurethane will make the dye take very unevenly and Rit will probably not have an effect at all. You could try the reactive dyes available at www.dharmatrading.com if you really want to experiment. Keep in mind: the thread and any trim and lining will not take the dye, but will remain their current color; you will be dyeing over a color, you cannot go straight to a pale pink but will be mixing the stone with pink; dyeing is a warm water process and the garment and its fabric must be able to take agitation and warm water. I really don’t think it’s worth it unless you are in the mood to learn all about dyeing. Look for another more appropriate coat.
Jennifer