How to Dye Fibers with Kool Aid or Other Powdered Drink Mix
Assemble materials., Before you start protect or remove any items you don't accidentally want to dye., Dump powdered drink mix into container., Add your fabric to the hot water and watch carefully., Every 15 minutes or so agitate your item, and...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Assemble materials.
The exact amount of drink mix or gelatin mix required depends on desired color saturation.
One packet to approximately one pound (half a kilogram) of material is a good start.Your fabric item should be made from natural fibers, like cotton.
It will work best on animal based fibers like silk and wool.
Plant fibers, such as cotton and linen, will yield light, muted colors.Man-made fibers like polyester will not take or hold dye.
Cotton/Polyester blends can be dyed, but will produce a mottled (heathered) effect. -
Step 2: Before you start protect or remove any items you don't accidentally want to dye.
This may mean putting on gloves to prevent dyeing your hands, an apron to avoid staining your clothing, and putting down plastic over carpeting or furniture. , Add about a cup (250 ml) of of very hot water to powder, mix well.
Once mix is completely dissolved, pour this mix into the washing machine.
Start washing machine cycle using hot water. , Be sure to stop the cycle once item is covered completely with water.
Use stick to poke item and make sure it's completely submerged.
Sometimes air bubbles will keep items afloat. , Try to wring out a corner so you see color of item, not color of dye bath.
Colors will lighten significantly after rinsing and when dry. ,,, If drip drying be sure to protect area below item in case it drips. ,, -
Step 3: Dump powdered drink mix into container.
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Step 4: Add your fabric to the hot water and watch carefully.
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Step 5: Every 15 minutes or so agitate your item
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Step 6: and start to check the color.
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Step 7: If you want to deepen color
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Step 8: add another packet of drink mix that has been dissolved in a cup of hot water to dye bath.
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Step 9: When desired shade is reached
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Step 10: a shade or two deeper than what you ultimately desire
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Step 11: allow washing machine to finish it's cycle.
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Step 12: If your item can stand it
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Step 13: tumble dry.
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Step 14: The first time you wear or use your item
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Step 15: be careful
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Step 16: as some color may transfer.
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Step 17: Be sure to clean washing machine after dyeing in it.
Detailed Guide
The exact amount of drink mix or gelatin mix required depends on desired color saturation.
One packet to approximately one pound (half a kilogram) of material is a good start.Your fabric item should be made from natural fibers, like cotton.
It will work best on animal based fibers like silk and wool.
Plant fibers, such as cotton and linen, will yield light, muted colors.Man-made fibers like polyester will not take or hold dye.
Cotton/Polyester blends can be dyed, but will produce a mottled (heathered) effect.
This may mean putting on gloves to prevent dyeing your hands, an apron to avoid staining your clothing, and putting down plastic over carpeting or furniture. , Add about a cup (250 ml) of of very hot water to powder, mix well.
Once mix is completely dissolved, pour this mix into the washing machine.
Start washing machine cycle using hot water. , Be sure to stop the cycle once item is covered completely with water.
Use stick to poke item and make sure it's completely submerged.
Sometimes air bubbles will keep items afloat. , Try to wring out a corner so you see color of item, not color of dye bath.
Colors will lighten significantly after rinsing and when dry. ,,, If drip drying be sure to protect area below item in case it drips. ,,
About the Author
Rebecca White
Creates helpful guides on home improvement to inspire and educate readers.
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