How to Scour Cotton Yarn
Scouring to remove oil and dirt is the most important step toward the successful dyeing of fibers. It entails a thorough washing that will not leave behind any residual matter. According to the website Entwinements.com, cotton yarn contains matter that is difficult to remove and that will interfere with the dyeing process. If you want your yarn to be considered Prepared for Dyeing (PFD) but don't want to buy yarn that is already PFD, follow these instructions to ensure optimal dye uptake.
Things You'll Need
- Container for soaking yarn
- Enough water for soaking, plus one to two gallons for scouring
- Dyepot
- Soda ash
- Synthrapol fabric detergent
- Long spoon
- Stove
Instructions
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1
Soak yarn for at least 30 minutes in enough water to fully immerse it.
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2
Remove yarn from water and set it aside. Add one to two gallons of water to the dyepot. Make sure the water level will be high enough to cover the yarn and allow it to move freely.
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3
Sprinkle in one tablespoon of soda ash for each gallon of water and add 1/2 tsp. Synthrapol per gallon of water.
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4
Place yarn in the dyepot and heat to boiling. Stir the yarn lightly through the water, making sure all fibers are completely bathed.
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5
Simmer yarn in the dyepot for 30 minutes.
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6
Remove yarn from the water and rinse it several times. Three to five rinses should be enough. The yarn can be wrung and used immediately. It is not necessary to dry it before beginning the dyeing process.
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Tips & Warnings
You can try just washing the yarn without scouring it. Washing is effective about 80% of the time with white or natural yarn.
A complete scouring is essential when you know yarn is soiled.
