How to Fix Color in a Silk Dress
Some of the earliest examples of silk were found in China as early as 3,500 B.C. Originally produced for Chinese emperors, silk became a valuable commodity traded around the world. During the Roman Empire, silk was worth its weight in gold. Silk is made from a natural protein fiber produced by silkworms and usually dyed with acid dyes. Sometimes these dyes are not properly set, which may lead to the color bleeding onto other materials. Color on silk garments can be fixed by either using a commercial color fixative or simple household ingredients. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Large stainless steel or enamel pot
- White household vinegar or citric acid
Instructions
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1
Check the label on your silk dress. If it says "dry clean only" then you may wish to return the dress. It is the responsibility of the manufacturer to ensure that a quality garment is made from material that has been dyed properly and does not bleed. If the label says it is washable, go to Step 2.
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2
Fill a stainless steel or enamel pot with enough warm water for the silk dress to be completely submerged, but do not submerge the silk dress in the water at this stage. Place the pot on the stove and turn up the heat.
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3
Add 1/4 cup of vinegar per pound of dry fabric to the water. If you do not like the smell of vinegar, use citric acid instead. Add 1 level tablespoon of citric acid per pound of dry fabric. Mix thoroughly.
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4
Place your silk dress in the warm water.
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5
Raise the temperature to 185 degrees Fahrenheit and maintain it for half an hour, stirring frequently. If using a gas stovetop, set it very low, at gas mark 1/2 or 1. It is important not to allow the water to boil.
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6
Remove the pot from the heat and let the water cool a little. Stir it a couple of times as it cools.
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7
Rinse the dress in several changes of clean, cool water. Ensure that any residual color is completely washed out. Do not wring the dress. Spread it flat on a towel and roll the towel up to remove excess water.
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8
Hang the dress up on a hanger to air dry it out of the sunlight. Iron it lightly while it is slightly damp.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a detergent formulated for washing silk or use pure soap flakes. Never use bleach on silk.
Red, green, blue and purple colored silk is especially prone to problems and will fade with prolonged exposure to sunlight, artificial light and pollutants. Store silk dresses in a breathable clothes cover.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
