Tie Dying

Tie Dying Calico Off Cuts

I found some calico offcuts in my sewing pile. The dye was on the 2021 residential school list but I withdrew from that unit. My son helped me create the dye dying so I was able to talk through the safety tips with him.

Making up the dye

Important to follow instructions when utilising chemical dyes. Gloves, safety glasses and metal saucepan and spatula. Use a deep saucepan/stock pot to minimise splashing. When stiring be gentle to minimise splashing and keep hands away from dye.

Soaking the fabric

The fabric is bound tightly and therefore air bubbles are trapped inside. Hold the material down under the liquid dye and the air bubbles will slowly disperse and the material will submerge and thoroughly soak up the dye.

Rinsing the Fabric

It is important to thoroughly rinse out the material. Aremove the elstic bands and rinse out the excess dye. Follow the instructions on the packet, Rinse, wash and rinse again. Use gloves for the chemical dyes and safety eye wear.

Drying and ironing Fabric

Place the fabric samples onto a clothesline and dry. Calico is easily creased so will require an iron afterwards. The three samples came out very nicely.