How to Dye Taffeta Drapes

Acid dyes should be used on taffeta drapes.

Drapes can add color or style to a room while also helping keep out light or prying eyes. When you change the colors in a room, however, your drapes might not fit with the new decorating scheme. Before you go out and buy new drapes, think about dying your current drapes a color that fits with your new room. Dying taffeta drapes requires a little extra effort, but the cost savings will likely make it worthwhile.

Things You'll Need

• Washing machine
• Hot water
• Acid dye powder
• Long spoon
• White vinegar
• Measuring cup
• Professional textile detergent
• Large stainless steel or enamel pot
• Stove
• Candy thermometer
• Sink with running water

Instructions

Washing Machine Method

1. Turn on your washing machine and place it on the longest hot wash/cold rinse cycle. Allow the machine to fill with water.

2. Place the taffeta drapes in the washing machine and get the fabric completely wet. Remove the drapes and set them aside. Do not dry the material.

3. Add the acid dye powder to the water. Follow the measurements on the package directions for proper amounts.

4. Mix the dye powder and water together, using a long spoon, until the dye is completely dissolved.

5. Place the wet drapes in the washing machine and allow the machine to spin with the dye bath and fabric for five minutes.

6. Measure 1 cup of white vinegar and add it to the washing machine. Do not pour the vinegar directly on the drapes.

7. Allow the machine to run through the entire wash cycle.

8. Remove the drapes from the washing machine. Run the machine through another wash cycle without any clothes to remove any remaining dye.

9. Wash the drapes again using a cool wash cycle. You can choose to add professional textile detergent to help set the color. After the second wash, you can handle the drapes as you normally would.

Stovetop Method

1. Fill a large stainless steel or enamel pot with water. Add enough water so the drapes can be fully submerged and move freely.

2. Place the pot on the stove and turn on the heat to medium. The water temperature should be between 185 and 200 degrees, but should not boil. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the water temperature.

3. Add the acid dye powder to the water. Follow the measurements on the package directions for proper amounts. Stir the mixture, using a long spoon, until the dye powder is completely dissolved.

4. Place the drapes in the sink and turn on the water until the fabric is completely wet.

5. Add the wet drapes to the dye mixture in the pot and stir frequently.

6. Measure 1 cup of white vinegar and pour it into the pot. If possible, have a second person pour in the vinegar so you can continue stirring.

7. Simmer the dye mixture and the drapes for 30 minutes, stirring frequently.

8. Pour out the dye and rinse the drapes in cold water. Continue rinsing until the water coming off the drapes runs clear.

9. Wash the drapes in a warm wash cycle with professional textile detergent, if you desire, to set the color. Dry as you normally would.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not attempt to dye taffeta drapes using basic fabric dyes. The silk properties of taffeta require acid dyes.

References

• Dharma Trading Company: Instructions for Jacquard Acid Dyes