Fabric Types & Dye Compatibility

Fabric Type Best Dye Types Ease of Dyeing Notes
Cotton Fiber reactive, procion Easy Absorbs vibrant colours
Rayon Fiber reactive, procion Easy Soft hand, bright colours
Silk Acid dyes Intermediate Delicate, luxurious finish
Polyester Disperse dyes Difficult Requires high heat
Wool Acid dyes Intermediate Warm colours, slow drying
Nylon Acid dyes Easy Bright colours, durable

Essential Tie-Dye Supplies

Supply Purpose Notes
Fiber Reactive Dyes Permanent, bright colours for natural fibers Requires soda ash fixative
Soda Ash Fixes dye to fabric Soak fabric before dyeing
Rubber Bands Create resist areas Vary thickness for pattern
Squeeze Bottles Controlled dye application Easy to use for detail
Plastic Table Cover Protect work surface Disposable or reusable
Gloves Protect hands from staining Nitrile recommended
Buckets Dye mixing and fabric soaking Use separate for each colour
Water Spray Bottle Keep fabric damp during process Useful for blending colours

Popular Folding & Resisting Techniques

Technique Description Pattern Outcome Difficulty
Spiral Twist fabric from center point Circular swirl Intermediate
Accordion Fold Fold fabric back and forth in pleats Stripes or waves Beginner
Bullseye Bind fabric in concentric rings Circular rings Beginner
Crumple Scrunch fabric randomly Abstract, marbled effect Beginner
Sunburst Pinch small sections for tight circles Small spots Intermediate
Mandala Complex folds with symmetry Detailed radial designs Advanced

Dye Application Tips

Tip Explanation
Pre-soak in Soda Ash Helps dye bond and set colours
Apply colours sparingly Prevents muddy colours where dyes mix
Work quickly Dye can dry before full absorption
Wear gloves & apron Protect skin and clothes
Seal fabric in plastic Keep damp during setting
Rinse until clear water Removes excess dye, prevents bleeding

Dye Setting & Aftercare

Step Instructions Notes
Heat Setting Steam or microwave dyed fabric Enhances colourfastness
Air Dry Hang fabric to dry for 24 hours Avoid direct sun for bright colours
Rinse Rinse under cold water until clear Prevents colour transfer
Wash Separately Use mild detergent, cold water First few washes to avoid staining others
Avoid Bleach Harsh on dye, causes fading Use colour-safe detergents
Iron if Needed On reverse side, low heat Protects fabric and colours

Common Problems & Solutions

Problem Cause Solution
Colours muddy or dull Overlapping too much dye Use less dye, separate colours
Uneven dye coverage Poor folding or binding Re-tie tighter, adjust folds
Colours fading quickly Improper setting or washing Follow proper setting steps
Bleeding colours Rinsed too warm or too soon Rinse cold, allow proper set time
White spots on fabric Areas missed dye or binding error Apply dye again, adjust tying

Project Ideas

Project Fabric Type Recommended Pattern Time Estimate
Classic Spiral Tee Cotton Spiral 2–3 hours
Bullseye Tote Bag Canvas Bullseye 1–2 hours
Sunburst Pillow Cover Rayon Sunburst 2 hours
Crumple Scarf Silk Crumple 3 hours
Mandala Wall Hanging Cotton or Linen Mandala 4+ hours