Tutorial: Dye Your Own Clothing

Yesterday, I made my first attempt at dyeing clothing.  I was inspired by the beautiful Shannon over at stylewithshannon.com.  If you haven't yet had the pleasure of reading her blog you should check it out now, because she has great style and lots of outfit ideas!  My first dye project went alright, but it was definitely a learning experience.  It was pretty simple, so I encourage everyone to try it out.  Here is how you do it:

Step One: Find an old item of clothing you no longer wear, or purchase an inexpensive item from your local thrift store.  You will want it to be white or off-white in color for the best results. 

Step Two: Gather your supplies.  You will need the item you will be dyeing, a box (or bottle) of fabric dye, 1 cup salt, a bucket or tub, 3 gallons hot water, and a separate bowl with 2 cups hot water.

Step Three: Dump 3 gallons of hot water into the tub.  Pre-dissolve powder dye in a separate bowl with 2 cups of hot water (not pictured).  Add this mixture to the tub, along with 1 cup salt, and stir. 

Step Four: Run your clothing under hot water, then add to the tub of dye.

Step Five: Stir the clothing around in the bucket for about 20 minutes.  It may be shorter or longer, depending on your preferred shade.  Luckily I had two cute assistants who helped me pass the time!

When you have achieved the desired shade, empty the tub and rinse well with warm water, then with cold water.  This would be easier in the sink, but I was paranoid that it would stain.

Wring out your dyed clothing and throw in the washing machine.  Wash on the warm setting with mild detergent and set it up to do an extra rinse cycle, if your machine has that option.  You don't want any of that dye left in the machine for your next load of laundry!  Once it is done washing, throw in the dryer or air dry.

This attempt wasn't perfect, but overall it turned out better than I expected.  The color was not exactly what I wanted; it was supposed to be tangerine and I think it looks like regular orange.  It's still fun and the price can't be beat (only about $1.50 for the dye with a coupon).  I really enjoyed this experience and I know I will be dyeing more clothing in the future.  It's an inexpensive, easy way to change up your clothing and I hope everyone will try it out.  If you do, let me know how it goes!

Linking to: Pleated Poppy WIWW, Will See It Wednesday, Metamorphisis Monday, Made by You Monday, Real Momma Real Style, Watch What I'm Wearing, Weekend Show-off, Manic Monday, Weekend Wrap-Up, Craftastic Monday, A Marvelous Mess, Craft-O-Maniac, Motivate Me Monday, DIY Project Parade, Sundae Scoop, Sunday Best