How to Make Seaweed Decorations

Mirror the look of real kelp by hanging fabric seaweed in clumps.

Create fabric seaweed decorations similar to the look of kelp for your room or party. Use them as window coverings, to drape over mirrors or picture frames, or for other decorative purposes indoors or around pools and outdoor areas. Turn your party into an underwater wonderland with seaweed streamers decorating the party room. You'll find everything you need to create the seaweed at a local craft or fabric store. Make one streamer or enough to cover an entire wall or room.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Rubber bands
• Fabric dye
• Measuring cup
• 5-gallon bucket
• Paint stirrer
• Scissors
• Spray starch

Instructions

1. Choose thin cotton fabric in white or another light color. For every 1 yard of seaweed, purchase 2 yards of fabric.

2. Crumple the fabric into a loose ball. Wrap 5 to 6 rubber bands around the ball so it keeps its shape.

3. Mix green fabric dye in a 5-gallon bucket. Mix 1 package powdered dye with 3 gallons of hot water, or follow package instructions.

4. Place the wadded-up fabric in the dye bath. Stir with the paint stirrer for 10 to 30 minutes or until the desired color is reached. Remove rubber bands and rinse the dye from the fabric under cold running water.

5. Mix dark green or black fabric dye in a bucket. Wad up the fabric again and replace the rubber bands. Repeat the dying process for 10 minutes only.

6. Remove the rubber bands and rinse out the excess dye under cold running water. Let dry completely.

7. Make 1-inch cuts along the bottom edge of the fabric every 3/4 inch. Tear the fabric into strips using the cut to start each tear. Leave the top 3 inches of fabric intact to hold the strips together.

8. Spray the fabric thoroughly with spray starch. Crumple up and let dry.

9. Shake the fabric out so it hangs flat but remains wrinkled from the starching. Hang or drape where desired.

Tips & Warnings

• Glue plastic fish throughout the seaweed sheet to add to the underwater effect.

• Cover work surfaces and wear gloves to avoid staining when dying fabric.

References

• Rit Dye: Sink or Bucket