How to Dye Antique Lace
Lace is an ideal embellishment for a craft that you want to appear aged, unless the lace is stark white. Fabrics change color as they age, and few age as noticeably as lace. Over time, most light-hued lace becomes beige. Though fabric dye can achieve the same result, the harsh chemicals in dye are unnecessary for coloring such a fine, delicate fabric, and they may damage antique textiles. Coloring lace with tea is a time-honored technique that is delicate enough for antique lace.
Things You'll Need
- Washcloth
- Stock pot
- 2 gallons water
- 4 tea bags
- Lace
- Wooden spoon
- 1 gallon container or larger
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- Towel
- Iron
- Thin washcloth, if needed
Instructions
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1
Clean the lace by blotting cool water on soiled areas with a soft washcloth, if necessary.
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2
Pour 1 gallon of water into the stockpot. Place the pot on the stove, turn the burner on high and bring the water to a boil.
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3
Add four tea bags to the water and boil for 15 minutes. Lower the heat to medium-high to maintain a simmer.
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4
Wet the lace under cool, slow running water. Add the lace to the tea and simmer the lace for 15 minutes.
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5
Pour 1 gallon of cool water into the large container and add 1/2 cup of vinegar.
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6
Remove the lace with a wooden spoon. Transfer the lace into the vinegar solution and let it soak for 15 minutes. The vinegar will set the color.
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7
Remove the lace from the solution and lay it on a towel. Pat the lace dry with the towel. Leave the lace exposed to air to finish drying.
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Tips & Warnings
Press the dry lace with an iron set on the lowest heat setting. If you are concerned about applying direct heat to the lace, cover it with a thin, dry washcloth to act as a barrier between it and the surface of the iron. Press the lace until it resumes its original shape.
