The amount of oil you ' ll need will depend on the condition of the boots . If they ' re new , or haven ' t been worn much , they might not need more than a coat or two . If they ' re really dry they may need multiple coats . You won ' t be able to or shouldn ' t apply more oil than they need , regardless of whether it will give you the colour you want or not . Too much oil will negatively affect the leather . Use a paint brush or cloth to apply each coat . If the oil is quickly absorbed , then the leather needed it and you can apply another layer . If the oil just sits on top of the leather , then the leather is well hydrated or very well protected , and simply won ' t accept any more oil . You may just have to be patient and apply more coats as the boots are worn and used , and they will darken over time . The boots may also darken drastically during the first application of oil , but may lighten a bit as the oil dries . It be a ' wait and see ' before you know what colour you will have after applications . Your boots will need reapplications after use especially if they get wet , or if you work in sawdust or livestock bedding as these materials tend to draw moisture out of the leather . Glad I can help !