How to Hand Paint Roving
Roving consists of fibers that have been drawn through toothed cards, aligning them to prepare them for spinning or felting. Dyeing fibers at this stage produces rich hues -- this is where the phrase "dyed in the wool" originates. The dye can spread evenly and deeply through the fibers, which can show hand-painted effects to great advantage. When you hand-paint fibers, you can produce subtle shading or dramatic effects with contrasting colors. Hand painting roving also provides for a variety of interpretations in the way that the yarn is spun, creating an evolving work of art.
Things You'll Need
- Roving
- Liquid soap
- Dye
- Dye fixative (if specified by the dye label)
- Latex or vinyl gloves
- Plastic bowls
- Plastic wrap
- Trash bags
- Tape
- Foam brush
- Steamer basket
- Large pot
Instructions
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Preparing the Materials
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1
Cut open the trash bags on two sides to form a single layer of plastic. Place this over a large, flat surface and tape to secure. This is the area you will use to paint the roving.
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2
Measure out the quantity of roving you wish to dye. Measure out that length plus 4 inches of plastic wrap for each length of roving you will be dyeing. Lay the plastic wrap over the opened trash bags, leaving at least 1 inch between each strip of plastic wrap.
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3
Roll the roving into a round bun shape, and tuck the tail end into the center. Fill a sink or bucket with warm water and 1/4 teaspoon of liquid soap. Place the roving in the water and leave to soak for one hour.
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4
Measure out and prepare the quantity of dyes specified on the label, with any required fixatives. If using a drink mix (such as Kool-Aid or Crystal Light), use one 0.14- to 0.22-ounce packet for each ounce of fiber. Pour a small quantity of each dye into its own plastic bowl, and reserve one foam brush for each color.
Dyeing the Roving.
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5
Remove the roving from the water. Gently squeeze to remove as much water as you can.
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6
Unroll the roving onto the plastic wrap. Apply the dyes to the roving with the foam brushes in the pattern of your choice.
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7
Enclose the roving in the plastic wrap lengthwise. Roll the wrapped roving into a bun. Pour enough water into the pot to reach the bottom of the steamer basket, and bring to a boil.
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8
Place the rolled roving in the steamer basket. When the water has reached a boil, turn it down to medium. Place the steamer basket in the pot and put on the lid. Steam for 30 to 45 minutes. Remove the steamer basket and leave to cool for one hour. Remove the roving from the plastic wrap and allow to dry.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Silk and wool take dyes readily.
If you are working with a dye or a fiber that is new to you, dye a test batch first.
Some bleeding of dyes is to be expected.
If working with aniline dyes, wear a dust mask.
Plastic and glass tools are best for anything that will come in contact with the dye. Metals may react with the dye, and wood may take up the dye.
References
- Photo Credit yarn 3 image by Jeffrey Sinnock from Fotolia.com
