You also need rubber bands or string to tie up the item you will be dyeing. After all, the tying is what makes all of the cool, one-of-a-kind designs! We will cover different ways you can fold and tie your items on the 'Our Projects' page.
After the tying comes the dyeing. When it comes to dye, you have a few options (some listed on the Tie-Dye Category page). For Our Projects, we used RIT brand dye for three reasons: 1) I have used it before with much success, 2) It was readily available, and 3) Each color cost us less than $3.
Here is a list of other supplies you may need:
- Rubber Gloves - To protect your hands from the dye.
- Large Pot or Bucket - Used to mix the dye - it should be able to hold 3 - 5 Gallons and it should be old so you don't care if it gets stained.
- Squirt or Spray Bottles - Can be used to apply some brands of dye.
- Long-Handles Utensil - An old spoon, B-B-Q tongs, etc. to stir the dye.
- Soda Ash - This is sodium carbonate which is used with some dyes to pre-treat the item you are tie dyeing to help create more vibrant colors.
- Salt - Used with RIT dye to help make darker colors more vibrant.
- Plastic Bag - Some dyes require the dyed item to sit in plastic bag for approx. 24 hours.
- Newspaper and/or Plastic Garbage Bag - Used to protect your work area.
- Rags, Paper Towels, Cleanser - For quick clean up.
Remember, these items are listed just to give you an idea of what you may need. Read the package your dye came in to see which supplies you will definitely need. Gather together your supplies and let's get on with the tying and dyeing!
