How to Dye Acrylic
Acrylic fiber, sometimes known as man-made wool, is a challenge to dye because pigment doesn't easily adhere to the type of plastic its made from. For home crafters, dyeing acrylic should be avoided whenever possible because the type of dye needed is hard to find -- the dyes found in most supermarkets and craft stores won't work -- and is more toxic than other dyes. There is also a higher chance of damage to the fiber. If you're up to it, however, you can dye acrylic at home.
Things You'll Need
- Postage or craft scale
- Rubber gloves
- Basic alcohol/water dye
- Acetic acid
- Small cooking pot
- Large cooking pot
- Wooden spoon
Instructions
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1
Weigh the dry fabric. You will use 1 tsp. of dye and 2 1/2 gallons of water per pound of fabric.
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2
Fill the large pot with the necessary amount of water. If you require more water than your pot holds, you'll have to dye in batches.
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3
Remove 2 cups of water from the large pot and pour it into the small pot. Bring the small pot of water to a boil. Add the basic dye, and stir to dissolve.
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4
Pour the dissolved dye into the large pot. Add 1 tbsp. of acetic acid per 2 1/2 gallons of water into the pot and stir.
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5
Rinse the acrylic fabric under running water and shake off the excess. Place the fabric into the pot of dye and push down with a wooden spoon to submerge it.
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6
Bring the large pot of dye to a boil slowly, over medium-low heat. Keep the pot at a low boil for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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7
Turn off the heat. Do not remove the fabric from the dye. Allow the dye to cool to room temperature overnight before removing and drying the dyed fabric.
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Tips & Warnings
Purchase basic dyes and acetic acid from professional dye suppliers online.
Always wear rubber gloves when working with basic dye.
Cooling the dyed fabric too quickly will result in damage.
