And the winner is Donna Gotlib. I found Donna’s blog during One World, One Heart and left a comment for her. In turn, she checked out my blog and left a comment for me. That comment earned her my hand dyed fabric bundle (thanks to Random.org which picked #5). Donna creates wonderful art designs; I fell in love with her wedding stationery called Neva and Howard. Just look at those bridesmaid designs! I love those. She has lots of other lovely things at her webstore Got Donna.
I’ve been thinking a lot about dyeing fabric recently and am itching to do some more myself. I’ve got a pretty good set up at present with all of my dyes and supplies in one spot and a handy bathroom sink nearby. But I’ve also been thinking about those of you who have an interest in dyeing but just don’t know where to start. So here’s my list of supplies you need to get started. Many of these things you can buy at your local big box or dollar store, and all of the actual dyeing supplies you can get from Dharma Trading Company who is offering 50% off shipping until the end of February. I’ve added a link to the supplies below that are available from Dharma. Click on the word and it will take you to the item on their website.
These supplies are for dyeing 100% cotton fabric. Dharma sells a number of different types, or you can pick some up at your local fabric store. I like Country Classic Solids from JoAnn Fabrics. It’s inexpensive and takes the dye well. Any 100% cotton fabric will work. Make sure you prewash it first.
- Fabric
- Mask/goggles (for mixing)
- Rubber gloves
- Misc. measuring devices -- buy a set of plastic measuring spoons and cups
- Plastic containers (cups, bowls, etc.)
- Zip lock plastic bags
- Plastic spoons
- Paper towels
- Newspaper or plastic dropcloth
- Sharpie marking pen for marking fabric and record keeping
- Synthrapol (or other soap)
- Soda Ash (1 or 5 lb); you will use 1 cup/gallon water
- Dharma brand fiber reactive dye in the following colors (2 oz. each):
These dye colors will mix together to create the colors you see here. I used the directions in Dyeing to Quilt by Joyce Mori and Cynthia Myerberg though I use less water than they call for to give a more mottled look to my fabric. The book contains the “recipes” you need to create a color wheel of 12 fabrics. I would recommend starting with fat quarters or half yard pieces for your first attempt. Feel free to email me privately if you want more information on the process. Good luck, and send me some pictures of your beautiful fabrics when you are through.