How to Dye Canvas With Rit
Rit is a common brand of dye that was first introduced in 1917. According to Rit, entrepreneur Charles C. Huffman wanted to create a product where consumers could easily dye fabric at home. Rit comes in a variety of colors and works best with natural fibers. Dye canvas fabric, such as a tote-bag or cloth, with Rit in your own washing machine. It is a convenient method for larger items as well and you do not need gloves.
Things You'll Need
- Washing machine
- 2 cups hot water
- Bucket
- 1 package powdered Rit
- 1 to 1 1/2 lb. fabric
- Detergent
- 1 cup chlorine bleach
Instructions
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Set the washing machine to a small load with a hot setting. Let it fill with hot water, be aware there should be enough water for the canvas to move around easily. If necessary, adjust the water level to a medium load, to assure the fabric can move freely.
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Pour 2 cups hot water into a bucket and dissolve a package of powdered Rit dye into the water. Pour the thoroughly mixed dye solution into the washing machine.
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Run the canvas under hot water in the sink. You may have to scrunch the fabric to wet it completely. After run under hot water, uncrumble the fabric and put it in the washing machine with the Rit.
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Set the washing machine for its longest clean cycle so the canvas is churned and moved as much as possible. It needs to sit in the Rit for at least 30 minutes, if the material is thick. Set the washing machine to clean again if you do not have a 30 minute cycle, before rinsing.
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Set the washing machine for a cold wash to rinse the canvas. Remove the canvas from the washing machine once it rinses clear. Allow the canvas to air dry to prevent shrinkage.
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Set your washing machine to hot with the highest water level, such as a super load, to clean off any residual dye. Add enough detergent for the load setting and add 1 cup of chlorine bleach.
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Tips & Warnings
Dye smaller canvas projects, such as shoes, in buckets with near boiling water. Remove and rinse once the desired color is achieved. Wear gloves for these projects.
If you are using very dark shades of Rit, add a small amount of mild detergent.
Plastic and rubber parts in your washing machine may become permanently stained from this project. However, it should not stain other clothing.
References
Resources
- "Dyes in History and Archaeology 21"; Jo Kirby, 2009
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
