Dyeing the Clear TPU Shell for the AYN Thor

Originally shared by u/MrBrothason on Reddit("Matrioshka Brain" on Discord) and inspired by Roetaka from the official AYN Discord, this creative community mod shows how to add custom color to your clear AYN Thor TPU Shell using Rit DyeMore Synthetic Fiber Dye. You can read the full discussion and see early results on Reddit here: I Dyed My TPU Shell Black.

Watch Before You Begin

Recommended reference video on dyeing TPU shells: YouTube – Shell Coloring Tutorial

⚠️ Safety First

• Always work in a well-ventilated area.
• Do not use cookware intended for food preparation — use a separate, non-food-safe pot.
• Be extremely cautious when heating acetone on a stove; it’s flammable. Keep flames and sparks away.
• Use heat-resistant gloves and tongs when handling the TPU shell.

Materials Needed

• 1 bottle (7 oz) of Rit DyeMore Synthetic Fiber Dye (graphite color or your preferred shade)
• Acetone (small amount, helps the dye permeate TPU)
• Dish soap
• Water
• Non-food-safe pot (large enough to fully submerge the TPU shell)
• Tongs or heat-safe gloves
• Paper towels or rags for drying

Preparation

1. Clean the TPU shell thoroughly with soap and warm water to remove any oils or debris.
2. Mix water, a small dash of dish soap, a splash of acetone, and Rit DyeMore dye in the pot.
3. Place on the stove and heat slowly to approximately 165°F – 180°F (74°C – 82°C). Do not boil.

Dyeing Process

1. Submerge one side of the TPU shell into the dye mixture and let it soak for 15–20 minutes.
2. Flip and repeat for the other side, keeping a steady temperature.
3. Once the color looks even, remove the shell and rinse thoroughly with cold water until it runs clear.
4. Dry the shell completely before reattaching it to your AYN Thor.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not dye your shell if you have a white or rainbow AYN Thor — dye residue may leach from the case and discolor the device.
• The dye process does not add thickness to the shell. In fact, the heat can make TPU slightly softer, so avoid excessive temperatures.
• Light or clear TPU cases work best for dyeing. Darker cases may not show visible color changes.
• Acetone helps the color permeate the TPU for longer-lasting results — but use sparingly, as too much can soften the plastic excessively.

Aftercare

Allow the shell to fully dry for several hours before reinstalling. Some residual color may continue to transfer for a short time, especially under heat or pressure, so avoid placing it on light-colored surfaces immediately after dyeing.

Result

The finished product has a deep, even tint without affecting flexibility or fit. The dye permeates the TPU rather than coating it, so the color won’t peel or fade quickly. This method gives your AYN Thor a one-of-a-kind aesthetic that looks factory-made yet fully customized.