How to Dye a Uniform
In tough economic times when families are pinching pennies and avoiding lavish purchases, reworking an old outfit or uniform is a simple, creative way to get a fresh, new look without breaking the bank. Whether you want to start a head-turning trend with your colorful new school uniform or put your own spin on mundane office digs, you can dye your work or school uniform in bold new colors with minimal effort. By using an inexpensive store-bought dyeing kit and a few household items, creating a new look can be as easy as washing a load of laundry.
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Things You'll Need
- Artificial or natural dye
- Bowl for mixing dye
- Measuring cups
- Metal tongs
- Washing machine
- Bleach
- Detergent
Instructions
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Turn your washing machine's temperature dial to hot and fill the machine with enough water so that your uniform will be able to move freely in the water.
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Determine the amount of dye you need for the size of the uniform by using the dyeing guide associated with the dye you are using. One to two pounds of clothing typically calls for one to two packages of fabric dye. Adjust the amount of dye based on the manufacturer's guidelines for bold, dark colors versus a light tinting of color.
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Pour store-bought dye powder into a bowl with two cups of hot water. Use the metal tongs to stir the dye until it is completely mixed. After the powder has dissolved, add it to the washing machine full of hot water.
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Use a pair of metal kitchen tongs to place your uniform in the washing machine, submerging the fabric in the hot water containing the dye. Use the tongs to push the uniform down into the water, taking special care not to get any of the water on your skin. Set your machine for an extended wash cycle, enabling fabric to sit in the dye bath for 30 minutes before the rinse cycle. Reset your washing machine before the rinse cycle begins for extended wash cycle if your wash cycle is less than 30 minutes.
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Allow your rinse cycle to begin after 30 minutes and let it complete a full washing/rinsing cycle. Take the uniform out of the washer and run it under cold water by hand, ensuring that the water runs clear and all evidence of the dye is gone. Wash darker shades in warm water with detergent and rinse in cold water after your uniform is dyed .
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Place your dyed uniform in the dryer or hang it up to air dry.
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Ensure that your washing machine does not dye your next load of laundry by setting your washing machine to the highest hot water level, adding one cup of bleach and enough detergent to do a load of laundry. Allow the machine to run through a complete wash cycle and clear your dryer's lint trap if the dryer was used to dry the uniform.
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Tips & Warnings
Instead of buying a chemical dye, you can dye fabric using natural ingredients, including coffee grounds, onions, strawberries and roses.
References
- Photo Credit Martin Poole/Lifesize/Getty Images
