How to Make Trap Dye

Dyeing steel traps is an important step when preparing traps for use. The scent of metal or human odor on the trap is repulsive to most land animals. There are few natural materials that will dye traps properly. Concentrated powder made from the wood of logwood trees is the favorite dye for most trappers. The dye works quickly and leaves traps a permanent black color, imparts a natural wood scent and prevents rusting. The black color helps to hide the traps whether set in water or on land. Logwood dye can be purchased from most trapper supply stores.

Things You'll Need

  • Propane cooker
  • Metal pot, 10 gallon
  • Logwood powder, 1 lb.
  • Stick, 3 feet long
  • Leather gloves
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill a 10-gallon pot 3/4 full of clean water. Place the pot on the cooker to heat the water.

    • 2

      Bring the water to a rolling boil. Pour 1 pound of logwood powder into the boiling water. Stir the pot with a stick to dissolve the powder. The water will turn black.

    • 3

      Dye the traps in the black water. Keep the water at a boil throughout the dyeing process.

    • 4

      Leave the dye water in the pot after the traps have been dyed as it can be reheated and used for dyeing additional traps.