Dyeing

Info

1. Important Information
2. Safety considerations
3. Dye products
4. Dye instructions

note: instructions sheets in PDF format now available for Procion immersion & tie dye methods

Important Information

Dyes are formulated for specific fibers so you must know the fiber content of the fabric you wish to dye. It is best to have the original tag for garments. For fabric, carefully record the fabric content from the end of the bolt.

For fabrics of mixed fiber content, only the part of the fiber matched to the dye will be colored. Be aware that threads may not be the same fiber as the cloth and may not take the dye.

The amount of dye required for the project depends on the dry weight of the fiber to be dyed. Please weigh the fiber before purchasing dyes.

Instructions will vary according to the application method. We have instruction sheets for immersion (solid color), tie-dyeing and painting methods. If you need an instruction sheet, please let us know which method of dyeing you intend to use.

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Safety considerations

We recommend the use of gloves at all times. While dyes are in dry powder form, a dust-mask is necessary. Please do not let children use the dyes in powder form and supervise them at all times during the dye process. All utensils and containers used in the dye process should not be returned to the kitchen for use with food.

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Dye products

The dye used must be appropriate for the fiber.
Here is a list of common fibers and the appropriate dyes:

Procion MX

Procion MX is a fiber-reactive, "cold-water" dye for cellulose based fibers. No heat is required, so this process can be done in a bucket, or even a washing machine. The container must be large enough for the fiber to move freely. You must have soda ash. Without soda ash, the color will not bond, or 'stick' to the fiber. If you want a solid color, common table salt will also be used. For tie-dyeing, a chemical called urea is used. We stock over 36 colors of dye and all can be mixed to create new colors. We also sell the soda ash, urea and tie-dye applicator bottles.
view color chart
  

Cushing

Cushing acid dyes are for protein-based fibers. These dyes require heat, so this process must be done in a non-reactive (stainless or enameled) pot and placed on a heat source. The container must be large enough for the fiber to move freely. The chemical required to bond this dye is simply vinegar. We stock over 80 colors of the dye and all can be mixed to create more colors.
view color chart
  

Dye Instruction Sheets

These instruction sheets are viewed in Adobe PDF format
See information* below if you need the free program to view file.

Procion MX Immersion Method: single, solid color application

Procion MX Tie Dye Method: multiple colors applied directly onto bound fabric

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