How to Dye Parachute Material

Dye a parachute to make it stand out in the sky.

The canopy of the parachute was initially made of canvas, and eventually replaced by silk. However, due to the high cost of silk during the mid-20th century, manufacturers began making parachutes from nylon. Nylon is still by far the most common parachute material. Therefore, to dye parachute material you follow the process necessary to dye nylon. All-purpose dyes that are a mixture of direct dye and leveling acid work best. Nylon is windproof, light and flexible and has a fine texture. Parachutes of various colors will look spectacular soaring through the air.

Things You'll Need

• Gloves
• Gallon-sized pot
• 4 oz. all-purpose liquid dye
• Stirring stick

Instructions

1. Heat half a gallon of water. Shake they dye bottle to make sure pigment is evenly dispersed and then pour 4 oz. into the water. Turn the stove off right before the water boils. Put gloves on to protect your hands from the dye.

2. Immerse the parachute into the dyed water slowly. Make sure the entire parachute is submersed under water, including the shroud lines.

3. Stir the parachute with the stick to expose all of the material to the dye solution. Continue stirring for 10 minutes.

4. Leave the parachute in the water for four hours while the water cools off. With gloves on, gently remove the parachute from the water and wring out as much excess liquid as possible.

5. Wash the parachute under cold water for 30 to 60 seconds. Some of the dye will come out. Wring out excess water.

6. Hang the parachute up to try. Put a container underneath to catch drips, as dye will stain most surfaces.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't use the pan or stick to cook food with again, as the dye will stain both.

References

• Fabulous Rocketeers: Skydiving FAQ
• Aeroconsystems: 60-inch Chute with Bag
• Tinder Rocketry: How to Best Dye these Parachutes