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Red RIT dye bathThere are two basic types of dye--all-purpose dye and fiber-reactive dye. RIT, Dylon and Tintex are well-known brands of all-purpose dye. All-purpose dyes are useful when dyeing a blended fiber, such as a polyester-cotton blend. According to the manufacturer of RIT dye, make sure that the item you are dyeing is at least 60% cotton.
Fiber-reactive dyes are used on 100% cotton items. These dyes are more readily absorbed by the fibers, and result in long-lasting, brighter results than all-purpose dyes. You can find fiber-reactive dyes under the brand names of Procion MX, Tulip brand One Step Fashion Dye and Dylon brand Cold Dye.
Each type and brand of dye is different, and it is best to follow the manufacturer's instructions when preparing the dye for use. -
Sodium carbonatePre-wash the item to remove any finish that may prevent the item from absorbing dye. Wear rubber gloves and a protective mask when you prepare the dye bath. Most all-purpose dyes need to be heated on a stove in a stainless steel pot, while fiber-reactive dyes do not. Items dyed with fiber-reactive dye do, however, need to be pre-soaked in a solution of sodium carbonate. Also, be sure to have plenty of ties on hand. Rubber bands, string, strips of cotton or yarn all work well. -
Color wheel showing primary, secondary and tertiary colorsWhen choosing colors, reference a color wheel. Using two primary colors next to each other will allow any dye that runs to create a secondary color that will complement the first two; for example, there may be a small stripe of green when blue and yellow dyes are used next to each other on a project. When using multiple dye colors, always apply the lightest color first. -
An example of a spir-dyed T-shirtFold the item in two, and pinch the center of the fabric. Begin twisting the item around the pinched point. Continue to twist the project until it resembles a cinnamon roll. Place two rubber bands perpendicular to each other across the twisted fabric. This will divide your project into four squares. Use three or four colors of dye to achieve a colorful spiral.
If you are using an all-purpose dye, wearing your rubber gloves, dip the section you wish to dye into the dye bath for approximately four minutes. Rinse that portion of the project under cool water until the water runs clear.
If you are using fiber-reactive dye, make sure you fully saturate the project with dye. Use squirt bottles if necessary to get the dye into all the crevasses of the fabric. The project should be dripping. Allow the fabric dye to stay wet and on the object for at least two hours, but no more than 48. Wash the object using cold water.
