What can be done about loss of dye?

[Naphtali]

I have an older Borsalino fedora with two small discolorations. My hat guy informs me that what I see is a loss of dye by the felt. Discoloration is nearly invisible unless you search for it closely under strong light.

This is an otherwise superb hat. Is there anything I can do, or have done, to restore these areas? Hat's color is a medium dark gray. On its interior label in Borsalino-speak: Azoico c. Nero.

 

[Naphtali]

There is no fix, repair, or remediation available?

 

[J.T.Marcus]

I have an older Borsalino fedora with two small discolorations... Discoloration is nearly invisible unless you search for it closely under strong light.

There are a few options:
(1) Don't search for it closely under strong light!
(2) Some have used "RIT" fabric dye.
(3) I had good results with hair dye. http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?t=22831

 

[Naphtali]

There are a few options:
(1) Don't search for it closely under strong light!
(2) Some have used "RIT" fabric dye.
(3) I had good results with hair dye. http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?t=22831

Mr. Marcus:

Many thanks for the link "Dying a Hat." What I read appears to imply a complete-hat color change. I would be nervous about touching up a color. About the only way I can think of to attempt color matching would be to loosen/remove crown liner to expose felt that is otherwise concealed and test color touch-up to blend.

One thing I have been considering that is low-down, unethical, and sneaky -- but might also work -- is to use face powder or pancake make-up lightly applied. It would be much less intrusive on the felt while, theoretically, being much easier to match and blend color. What do you think? . . . Are there any make-up artists reading this thread?
***
Are you related in any way to the late Herman and Rose Marcus of University City (St. Louis suburb), Missouri? They were my first cousins.

 

[Naphtali]

I just got off the telephone with a recently retired make-up artist. She said make-up would be unsatisfactory because it is clay based, therefore would run.

She suggested I investigate eye shadow. If a color blend can be achieved, she further suggested fixing the area with Scotchguard® or other fabric waterproofing compound that dries clear. She also mentioned Mr. Marcus' solution (1) Don't search for it closely under strong light!