tieanddye

Tie-dye workshop

Method

What you need:

- a heatproof container

- hand dye, which you can find in hardware stores (choose bright colours and mixes if you're confident)

- a pair of rubber gloves so you don't dye your hands

- a small stick for stirring

- you'll also need some elastic bands or string for your knots

What to dye:

T-shirts (a classic), sarongs, wraps, skirts, dresses, shorts but also pillow cases, cushion covers, table runners, napkins, tea towels, curtains, etc. Opt for light-coloured fabrics. Natural fabrics take the dye better so cotton and linen are particularly suitable.

Tie-dye is back and you can see it on everything from clothes to cushions! So why not try this incredibly simple technique at home? No need for any special machines or a workshop, all you need is a well-protected area if you're working indoors or any outside space. Test your tie-dye skills on something old (and light coloured) before you experiment on your best t-shirt!

You'll need a bucket, rubber gloves, hand dye, a stick (for stirring) and table salt.

First, fill the bucket with hot water (follow the instructions on your dye packet).

You can create your own colours by mixing different dyes together.

Tip the dye into the bucket of hot water.

Make sure you mix everything really well together to achieve an even result.

Important: for your first attempt test it out on a piece of old white cloth, you don't want to spoil your best top! (remember the first time you made pancakes!)

Lay your garments out flat. And let your imagination run wild...

Then place the garment directly into the dye solution.

Remove it quickly at first and then more slowly to achieve different levels of colour intensity.

Remove it very carefully from the dye solution (without splashing the undyed parts) and rinse the dyed part under cold water until the water runs clear.

Instructions

What technique for what effect? Circles and stripes

Results of the first attempt!

Photo : Mélina Vernant