Tie dying...

[Craftmatters]

I enjoy doing tie dying - and I have been experimenting with making tie dyed baby vests etc. to sell (and as gifts for friends!). A problem that I don't seem to be able to solve is that the results are often a bit blotchy - i.e. the areas that are supposed to be a solid shade take up the dye a bit patchily. I've used Dylon cold water dyes if that makes a difference.

[goldy1]

Have you pre washed the item to remove any finish the fabric had put on in the factory?

[janetdc]

Tie-dying takes me back. I was a bit of a hippy in my youth and used to tie die everything I could get my hands on. Any other older forum members remember doing this?:D

[Rodeo Lady]

Tie-dying takes me back. I was a bit of a hippy in my youth and used to tie die everything I could get my hands on. Any other older forum members remember doing this?:D


Absolutely yes. With nothing any fancier than food colouring I was really lucky my dad was a baker and he used to bring all the left over colours home.

Janice x

[incywincy]

I would also suggest pre-washing the items. What are you using to tie the fabric?
Would love to see some of your items :)

[linz]

I can vouch for pre-washing making ZERO difference when using dylon hot water dyes. going to have a go next week with machine dye though.

[Craftmatters]

I definitely pre-wash. The last lot I did I used Dylon & used the kind that you do in a bucket (rather than on the stove or in the machine) - so I am guessing that is the cold water dye? I can't tell you the number of times I have bought the wrong blooming dye - those little tins are so awful. Thanks for your help guys.