Getting started with Aniline dyes

[Jeff Yates]

So I have decided I want to play around with aniline dyes and some various types of wood. I have projects in the coming months (and years), and honestly this is a skill I want.

I've been reading...ALOT on this process, enough so that I think boots on the ground, or in this case, sponge on the boards is where I need to be.

That brings me to the question..I would like to get a variety of colors, possibly of brands. Are there places to get sampler sets, or small bottles of the powder in various colors so I can see how the different colors and brands react with different woods along with the different mix bases. Heck I'm even going to give RITT a shot for different applications...

My googling skills have not been up to par on this task...

[Prashun Patel]

I've had good luck with Transtint. People also like Lockwood.

The stuff lasts so long, you could buy 2oz Transtint Medium Brown concentrate + 2oz green, red, and amber respectively and it'd provide you with a lot of material to experiment with - all for around $70.

[Jeff Yates]

Those are the ones I have heard the most about...worst case scenario I can go that route...but I'm hoping there is a sampler kit...

Maybe not...thank you for your input.

[Steve Schoene]

W.D. Lockwood does(did?) sell a sampler kit as mentioned on their web pages. I don't think they have click through ordering but have been responsive when I have called with a question. They are still located in downtown New York. Lockwood does have a very wide range of colors.

TransTint is good dye, but unless you are spraying I prefer the powdered water soluble dyes, which from Homestead Finishing Products are branded TransFast. Transtint dissolves in many solvents--which unfortunately includes the solvents in some of the topcoats you may want to use, adding a minor complication. But that does make it great for adding to clear finish to get a dye toner.

[Jeff Yates]

Thank you Steve

I will give them a call this week....will update as I know more...