How to Dye Yarn in the Microwave
Dyeing is the process of staining a fiber so that it takes on a new color. When you are dyeing a natural protein-based fiber like silk or wool, you can dye the fiber in a microwave. Use Kool-aid mix to color your silk or wool yarn any way you like. When you are using this process, you do not need to use a mordant to fix the dye, making microwave dyeing a convenient process that does not require alum or iron. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Fill a bowl with hot water and soak the protein-based yarn in it for 30 minutes.
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Mix one package of Kool-Aid with a solution that is one part white vinegar to three parts water in a bowl. The more liquid you add to the package of Kool-Aid, the lighter the color will be. Use 1 package of Kool-Aid for every ounce of wool.
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Remove the yarn from the hot water and squeeze out all the excess water.
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Spread a large sheet of plastic wrap in the sink and place the yarn on the plastic wrap.
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Pour the Kool-Aid, water and vinegar mixture over the fiber slowly, saturating it as thoroughly as possible.
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Roll plastic wrap up, covering the yarn completely.
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Secure the plastic to the yarn by wrapping masking tape around the plastic.
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Place the plastic-wrapped yarn into a Pyrex bowl.
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Place the Pyrex bowl in the microwave and heat it on high for two minutes.
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Remove the Pyrex bowl from the microwave and allow it to sit for two minutes.
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Squeeze the plastic-wrapped yarn lightly to more evenly distribute the dye.
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Place the plastic-wrapped yarn back in the Pyrex container and place the Pyrex container back in the microwave, heating it on high again for two minutes.
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Remove the Pyrex bowl from the microwave and allow it to sit for two minutes.
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Remove the yarn from the plastic wrap and rinse it out in lukewarm water.
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Hang the yarn up to air dry.
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References
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