How to Dye Fabrics With Methyl Orange

Methyl orange dyes work well on nylon.

Methyl orange dye is a type of acid dye known as an anionic dye. This kind of dye is ideal for dyeing synthetic fabrics such as nylon, polyester and rayon. Even though this dye is intended for use with synthetic fabrics, it is still necessary to prepare the fabric with an iron-sulfate solution to help the fabric bond with the colored dye. If you do not soak the fabric in the iron-sulfate solution, the colors may appear weak or streaky.

Things You'll Need

• Iron-sulfate crystals
• Large pot
• Synthetic fabrics
• Plastic gloves
• Tongs
• Methyl orange acid dye
• Large bucket

Instructions

1. Place 1 cup of iron sulfate crystals into 1 gallon of water in a large pot. Heat the water until boiling, then remove it from the heat.

2. Place the fabric inside the solution for let soak for 25 minutes.

3. Put on plastic gloves. Remove the fabric from the water with tongs and squeeze out any excess water.

4. Pour one bottle of methyl orange acid dye and 1 gallon of water into a large pot. Heat the water until just boiling, the pour the mixture into a large bucket. Place the soaked fabric into the dye and allow the dye to soak for about seven minutes. Stir the fabric in the bucket for best results.

5. Rinse out any excess dye with clean, cool water. Dry the fabric in the dryer to set the dye.

References

• Scecina Chemistry: Improving the Dyeing of Nonpolar Fabrics
• Dublin Scioto High School: The Chemistry of Dyes