Redditor Transforms Harbor Freight Tools with vinyl Dye Technique
A resourceful Redditor has demonstrated a cost-effective method for customizing and unifying the appearance of Harbor Freight tools and garage gear,sparking interest among DIY enthusiasts. User JasperDyne shared a process for recoloring vinyl upholstery on tool chests and other items, offering a solution for those seeking a cohesive look without the expense of replacing equipment.
The project addresses a common frustration among Harbor Freight customers: the brand’s varied color schemes across its product lines. While Harbor Freight offers affordable tools, achieving a unified aesthetic in a workshop often requires notable effort. JasperDyne’s technique, utilizing SEM Marine vinyl dye, provides a relatively simple and inexpensive alternative to purchasing higher-end, uniformly colored tool storage.The method has gained traction online, with many users expressing interest in applying it to their own Harbor Freight purchases.
JasperDyne detailed using SEM Marine-brand spray to change the color of a Harbor Freight tool chest. The process involves cleaning, prepping, and applying the dye, resulting in a professional-looking finish.
Beyond vinyl, the article notes alternative approaches for other materials commonly found in workshops. For metal surfaces like toolboxes and rolling carts, oil-based glossy enamel paint is recommended for its durability, scratch resistance, and ease of cleaning, despite longer drying times and potential fumes. For plastics, rubber, and flexible materials, plasti Dip-a rubber coating available in various colors-offers a protective, grippy texture, and can even be custom tinted with colorants sold at hardware stores. According to Plasti Dip’s website, approximately one ounce of colorant is sufficient to tint a 14.5-ounce can of Plasti Dip.
