Supplies for Making Tie Dye T-Shirts

Series Summary

Tie-Dying is the process of dying an article of fabric or clothing by tying the fabric with string or rubber bands and then administering the dye. Parts of the folds where the fabric is tied resist the dye and a distinct and consistent pattern is applied. There are different dyes that can be used though the most commonly used dye is Procion MX fiber reactive dyes. These dyes are easy to use because they work at warm room temperatures and blend with most fibers including rayon, hemp, linen and cotton. Soda ash can be applied to raise the pH during the dying process or before the dying process.

Learn how to make tie-dye shirts in these fun and instructional videos. Get tips on the dyes and other products you will need for tie-dying a shirt. Learn new and different ways to fold fabrics for dying including the double spiral and the horizontal two roll or accordion. Each fold will produce a different result. Try the circle tie dye patterns or dipping techniques and make stylistic circles with tie dye shirts. Learn how to make the vertical accordion or the vertical roll folds to make different patterns with the dye. Watch expert demonstrations on tie-dying and start a new hobby today!

Video Transcript

"I am going to show you different tie dye techniques. Here’s what we need to start 100 percent cotton white t-shirts, do not use polyester or acrylic, you can choose from different dyes available on art shelves. Be sure to read the instructions of the one you decide to use. You’ll need lots of rubber bands, at least 3 for every shirt you plan to dye. The idea is to have different sizes, one for each color you plan to use, salt, an iron, a stick or something to mix the dye with the water. A spray gun is optional, but very nice to have, and a few pairs of disposable gloves. And now with all that at hand, we are ready to start. "