It seems to work

[Ray Kunz]

Most of the dyed marabou, especially black, that I have from reputable brand name sources will really bleed onto my fingers even when just tying it in. I was told that this happens because the supplier is not "fixing" the dye after the dying step. I was also told that if I simply soaked the whole string of marabou in a pan of warm water that was heavily salted, rinsed it off and dried it in my microwave that the bleeding would be stopped. I just tried it and it seems to work. How about that? Any comments, please.

[ScottP]

Ray,

When I dye with Kool Aid, I add vinegar to fix the color and haven't had problems with any bleeding. May have to try both methods on some of the black marabou I have, because I'm seeing the same bleeding you are.

Regards,
Scott

[AllenOK]

Wouldn't the salt residue in the feather corrode the hooks in your fly box?

[hap]

Wouldn't the salt residue in the feather corrode the hooks in your fly box?

Very good point, but the rinsing is usually adequate for most salt removal...

That said, there is a brand which I no longer buy and the local fly shop is moving completely away from due to bleeding colors...

[johnniewalker]

Ray - this I needed to hear! Just been through a weekend of steelhead tube tying, and the fingers do get pretty coloured. I'll try the method you mention - when you say "heavily salted" what rough ratio are you using?
Thanks,
JW

[Allan]

Think of preparing a glass of salt water to use for an oral rinse after having a tooth pulled. That's too salty so add another glass of water. That should do it.

Allan

[ScottP]

I'm wondering if it's a problem with black dye in general; I've had lots of problems with black-dyed deer hair leaving residue on my fingers. Can't say if it's brand-specific because I tend to misplace the bags or put individual pieces in quart or gallon size bags for my travel kit.

Regards,
Scott

[Ray Kunz]

Somewhere I recall being told that there is really no such thing as black dye. It is supposed to be an extremely dark purple.