How to Dye Fabric for Quilts
Dye your own quilt fabric and you will be able to fully customize your quilt to match any taste or decor. Dyeing your own fabric is also economical; simply buy yardage of an inexpensive white or ivory cotton, then cut into pieces and dye each a different color. Use 100 percent cotton for dyeing and look for dye specifically for fabric in the craft or home improvement store. Some grocery stores even stock fabric dye that is suitable for this project; look in the laundry aisle for a selection of colors.
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Things You'll Need
- 100 percent cotton quilter's fabric
- Rubber gloves
- Fabric dye
- Wooden spoon
- Washing machine
- Dryer (optional)
Instructions
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1
Fill the washing machine with warm water. Put on gloves to protect your hands from dye spills.
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2
Add the dye. Stir with the wooden spoon to mix it into the water.
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3
Unfold the fabric then place it into the washing machine. Press the fabric into the water until it is completely submerged.
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4
Let the fabric soak for the time recommended by the dye manufacturer. The time will vary depending on the brand of dye and the color; most need about a 1/2 hour of soaking.
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5
Complete the wash cycle to rinse away the dye. Remove the fabric and dry in the dryer or line dry. Cut and use as needed for your quilt.
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Tips & Warnings
Your fabric doesn't have to be a solid color; cotton prints dye well, too.
Look for tie dying kits to get a range of colorful fabric dyes in one box.
If your finished fabric is not the color you were expecting, you can dye it again using a darker or brighter shade.
Don't get dye on your skin; it won't be easy to wash off.
Keep all dye products away from pets and kids.
References
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
