How to Hand-Dye Acrylic Yarn
Since acrylic yarn is made of man-made materials, it does not take to dyes as well as natural fibers such as wool or cotton do. However, disperse dyes, which can lightly penetrate the acrylic fibers, can provide some color change. Some acrylic yarn colors cannot be completely changed, so it is best to run a test batch to see what your end result will be.
Things You'll Need
- Acrylic yarn
- Rubber gloves
- Apron or old clothes
- 2 large pots
- Spoon
- Disperse dye
- Old nylon stockings
- White distilled vinegar
- Synthrapol
- Soda ash
Instructions
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1
Clean the yarn thoroughly with hot water (at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit), 1/2 tsp. of soda ash, and 1/2 tsp. of Synthrapol per pound of yarn. This removes all of the oil, dirt and sizing from the yarn and prepares it for the dyeing process. This can be done on a pot on the stove or in a washing machine.
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2
Rinse the yarn completely and set it aside for now.
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3
Bring one cup of water to a boil. To this add the correct amount of powdered dye, according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Mix until completely combined. Let the dye cool.
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4
Put warm tap water into a stainless steel or enamel pot. Strain the dye mix through the old nylons into the pot, as well. Straining the mix will eliminate the clumps of dye that did not dissolve. Add the correct amount of Synthrapol and vinegar to the dye mix. Stir well after each addition.
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5
Place yarn into pot with the dye mix. Slowly heat to a boil, stirring constantly. Once the dye mix is boiling, keep it at a boil for the next forty to sixty minutes, stirring occasionally. The length of time in the dye bath will determine the depth of color saturation. Remove from heat and let the mix cool to room temperature.
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6
Rinse the yarn well, then let it dry.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not use pots or spoons that are used for food preparation to dye the yarn.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Creatas/Getty Images
