How to Dye a Silk Scarf in Your Microwave

How would you like to create a colorful, tie dye silk scarf quickly and easily using your microwave? A tie dye scarf can really add a boost of color to a springtime outfit and you'll have the satisfaction of knowing you made it yourself. Here's how to tie dye a silk scarf

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A microwave
• A microwave safe pot with lid
• A pre-washed silk scarf blank
• Silk paints
• Apple cider vinegar
• Gloves
• Cording

1. Buy Your Supplies.
   
   You can buy silk paints from you local craft store or online. Choose three or four different colors to use in this project. You'll also need a silk scarf blank. These can be found at some craft stores and are readily available online. A scarf blank is simply a white, silk scarf that's are ready to dye.

2. Prepare Your Scarf.
   
   Put on gloves to protect your hands. Start by tying cording around your silk scarf randomly to create the tie dye effect. The look will vary depending upon how thick your cord is and how many times you bind it. Once your scarf is tied with the cord, pour some cider vinegar into a bowl and place your scarf in the bowl to pre-soak. Allow your scarf to remain in the vinegar for ten minutes.

3. Apply the Paint.
   
   Using an eye dropper or paint brush, paint or drip the silk paint onto your presoaked scarf blank. There's no right or wrong in how you apply the paint since each scarf will be a one-of-a-kind work of art. After applying the paint, squeeze the scarf with your gloved hands to encourage blending of the colors.

4. Microwave.
   
   Place the painted scarf into your microwave safe pot and cover it with the lid. Microwave on the medium setting for four minutes. Once the scarf has cooled, you can unbundle the cords. You should see a beautiful abstract pattern of colors on your scarf. Rinse your scarf in cool, clean water to remove any residual color. Allow your scarf to dry and iron out any wrinkles before wearing it.