How to Tie-Dye
Most people think of the 1960’s or 1970’s when they see tie-dyed t-shirts, but tie-dyeing actually goes back to the eighth century in ancient Japan where it was called Shibori. This dyeing technique was also used in many other cultures such as India, Nigeria, and areas of West Africa. The end results produced everything from beautiful organic shapes to precise geometric designs.
There are many ways to fold, tie, and dye the fabric. This short tutorial can be used to get you on your way to superb creations, but tie-dye is ultimately an activity of experimentation and creativity. The vibrant, impressive designs that you may see in a store have come from years of experimenting with fabrics, dyes, and tying methods. So be patient, have fun, and be creative!
Step 1: Setting Up the Dyes
There are many different dyes on the market today that come in an array of colors. When purchasing dyes, there is one thing that you must take into account. You are going to only want to purchase fiber reactive dyes. These are the most permanent, brightest, and long-lasting dyes. Fiber reactive dyes are much better than all-purpose dyes because the molecules in reactive dyes permanently bond to fibers such as cotton, linen, and hemp when the pH level of the dye is raised. The color will not bleed or fade during washing, however, over time the colors will fade with exposure to sunlight.
The dye comes in a powdered form so you are going to want to wear a dust mask when mixing the dye to avoid inhaling it. One well-known dye is Procion MX, but any fiber reactive dye will do. In addition to the dye you are also going to need one tablespoon of Urea, water softener if needed, and sodium alginate thickener if desired. The thickener will slow down the spread of color and make the dye easier to control.
First prepare eight ounces (one cup) of warm water for every color that you have. Dissolve the tablespoon of Urea in it. Next add two to eight teaspoons of the dye, depending on the color. Light colors will need more powder, dark less. The label should have a suggested amount. Next add the softener or thickener if you have decided to use them. Dyes can then be placed in shallow bowls or into squirt bottles depending on your preference. Remember that this dye is extremely permanent. It is always a good idea to wear old clothes, gloves at all times, and tie-dye outside if possible.
Step 2: Tieing the Fabric
The patterns that appear on tie-dye t-shirts occur because the flow of the dye has been blocked by the different folds and twists tied into the shirt before dyeing. This next step of tieing the fabric will determine what the pattern on your fabric will be. You will need a washed, cellulose based fabric, such as a white cotton t-shirt. You will also need a large number of rubberbands or string to tie the fabric. You are going to tie the fabric now into the pattern that you wish to dye. Lay it on a flat surface and remove all wrinkles. There are many different patterns in tie-dyeing. The few mentioned below can be combined and adapted to create unique combonitions and creations.
The spiral pattern is a shape that is remisenct of a snail shell. To achieve this pattern, pinch the fabric where you want the center of the spiral to be and twist. The spiral can be as small as a corner of the sleeve or as large as the entire shirt. Use your string or rubberbands to hold the fabric in place. Stripes can be obtained be pleating the fabric. They can run horizontally or vertically. The bullseye pattern is created by pinching the fabric and tieing it into a tube with rubberbands spaced where you wish rings to be created. The rubberbands will let the original fabric show through.
Now that your fabric is tied, it is time to raise the pH so the dyes will bond better to the fabric. In order to raise the pH of the dye, you will need to add Soda Ash, also known as sodium carbonate. It is sometimes used in swimming pools or sold in craft stores. This chemical is midly caustic, so remember your gloves and dust mask. Dissolve eight ounces (one cup) of Soda Ash in a gallon of water. Soak your fabric in the solution for fifteen minutes to one hour, then squeeze the garment until it is no longer dripping but damp.
You are finally ready to dye your fabric. Whether by squirt bottle or by dipping the fabric, the longer the fabric is exposed to the dye, the deeper the color will be. Colors can also be overlapped and mixed right on the t-shirt. Just like tieing, dyeing is an exercise in creativity. When you are through dyeing your fabric, place it in a plastic bag with the fabric still tied. It will need to stay in the bag for four to 24 hours to let the dyes soak completely.
After the dye has had a chance to soak, run the fabric under cold water to get rid of excess dye. Then remove the ties while keeping the fabric under hot water. When no more dye is apparent in the water, machine wash your shirt seperately from non tie-dyed clothes in hot water to be sure that all excess dye is removed.
Step 3: Show Off Your Creation!
Congratulations, you have just created your very own original piece of tie-dye! Tie-dyeing is great for older children and adults, but is not reccommended for very young children because of the potentially irritating chemicals. Be sure to always wear gloves throughout the entire processes and a dust mask when mixing powders. Tie-dyeing is all about creativity, so get out there and and expose your artistic side!
