When I was a kid I used to tie-dye all the time. Now that I’m older I wanted to revisit that hobby in a different way. Ice dye is a unique method of coloring your fabric. Instead of pouring hot liquid over fabric in intricate designs, it utilizes the melting ice to spread the dye into a soft a very blended pattern. This is a very easy method to try and perfect for the summer.
Supplies
- Fabric – I used 1 yard of 100% cotton fabric
- Powdered Dye – I used three powdered dye packets
- Ice
- Gloves*
- Container*
- Racks*
- Spoon*
- Optional: soda ash
*since many dyes are toxic it is important that these supplies are only used for this project and that you do not use them with food.
When choosing a fabric it is important to keep in mind how that material reacts with dye. Natural fibers like cotton often produce the best results. Materials like 100% polyester and acrylic are a hassle to work with. I suggest reading the labels on your dye packets because many brands have different suggestions and warning.
I used one yard of 100% white cotton cloth for my project. Since cotton works very well with dye I don’t find it necessary to pre-soak it in soda ash. Additionally, the tulip powdered dye I used doesn’t list soaking my fabric in soda-ash as an instruction. Once again, read the labels on your dye packets to get the best results!
The colors I used in my project are:
- Tulip Teal
- Tulip Violet
- Rit Petal Pink
Directions
- Put the rack on top of your container and set up your work station in an area where the ice will melt easily. Remember, dyes are toxic so do not do this project in a closed space. I recommend doing this project outside, especially during the spring and summer months.
- Dampen your material in warm water. String out any excess water.
- Place the fabric on the rack in whatever format you choose. I decided to scrunch it up as tightly as I could.
- Cover your material with ice. I used 1 bowl of ice.
- Using a spoon start sprinkling the powder over your ice. I used up all three packets because I wanted to saturate my fabric as much as possible. If you want more white spots or a lighter color then don’t use as much dye.
- Let the ice melt completely.
- Put your fabric in a bag and let it sit for at least 24 hours. I let mine sit for 36 hours.
- After at least 24 hours rinse your fabric until the water runs clear. I rinsed my fabric in the bath tub.
- Run your fabric in the washer by itself and with no detergent.
- Dry and enjoy!
I love the effect that this method gives. There are also so many ways to use this as well. I think I might use my fabric to make a pillow. Try it out this summer and let me know how it goes!
#sparkinbloom
Spark In Bloom 