How to Dip Tie Dye Shirts

Although it's been a traditional art form for centuries in Asia and Africa, tie dye became most popular in America during the 1960s and 1970s. Bring the style back to your wardrobe by learning different patterns and tie dye dipping techniques. Try this fun craft activity for yourself or ask the kids to join you.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric dye
• Color wheel
• Cotton fabric
• Rubber bands or twine
• Tie-dye pattern
• Plastic gloves
• Buckets
• Soda ash
• Water
• Newspaper
• Plastic grocery bags

Instructions

1. Choose dye colors for your tie dye project. Use a color wheel to choose colors that enhance each other. Colors on the opposite side of the color wheel appear muddy when mixed.

2. Use dyes found in tie dye dipping kits or those available at the grocery store for initial attempts at creating tie dye. Experiment with fiber-reactive dye to create vivid, colorfast tie dye masterpieces. Find fiber-reactive dyes at local craft stores.

3. Find fabric made of 100 percent cotton to tie dye. Tie your fabric in your favorite tie dye pattern using rubber bands or twine. Find tie dye patterns online or create your own pattern through trial and error.

4. Wash your fabric before dyeing. Put on plastic gloves. Soak your fabric in a bucket containing soda ash and water for 5 to 20 minutes. Skip this step if you add soda ash directly to your dye bath. Check the instructions on your dye box to see if pre-soaking in soda ash is necessary.

5. Prepare your work space for tie-dye dipping. Cover the table and floor with newspaper or garbage bags. Create a clean spot to place your fabric after dipping. Arrange buckets or other containers to hold your dye baths.

6. Mix each dye batch according to manufacturer's instructions. Make each batch in a different container according to dye color.

7. Place your tied fabric into the dye bath. Immerse your fabric completely or merely dip one section into the dye. Dipping the fabric in the dye bath for a longer period of time intensifies the dye colors. Dip your fabric in multiple colors if so inspired. Dip the fabric until it is soaked and dye drips from the fabric. Wring out excess dye and place your fabric on a clean surface.

8. Store your tie dye dipped fabric in a warm area overnight. Place the fabric in tied plastic grocery bags if a warm spot is not available. Check the instructions on your brand of dye to see if immediately rinsing your fabric is recommended after dipping. Follow the instructions found on your dye packet.

Tips & Warnings

• Use protective gloves when handling soda ash because it irritates the skin.