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Easy Tie Dye Instructions

By Lorain Blanken, About.com

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How to Tie Dye - What You'll Need

How to Tie Dye

Tie Dye is a timeless casual look.

Feelin’ groovy? You will be in no time; wearing a tie-dyed shirt you made yourself. In tie dye, you aren’t just limited to t-shirts. You can tie-dye socks, shorts…even underwear. Tie dye is a fun party project that can be completed outside in the summer, or indoors. Follow these steps to get in on the boho trend without spending the bucks.

You will need:

  • A white T-shirt -Any cellulose fiber garment will work. Stick to white for best results.

  • Squirt Bottles – For use if you are dying multiple colors on each garment. Ketchup bottles found in the kitchen section at department stores will work. Tie Dye kits bought at the craft store will include these.

  • Fiber reactive dye -tie dye kits will come with this, or it can be found at craft stores in many colors. You can buy tie dye kits online.

  • (Optional) Soda Ash – Also known as sodium carbonate
  • Rubber bands or string- We will be tying off the shirts with these. For a wild variety of designs, use string or get a pack of rubber bands in various lengths.

  • Rubber gloves – You will need rubber gloves to protect your hands from the dye. Cheap rubber gloves can be found in the dishwashing section of your local grocery store.

  • Garbage bags – In case you aren’t dying outside, these can be used to prevent indoor messes.

Once you have all your supplies, you can prepare your workspace.

Index: Easy Tie Dye Instructions

  1. How to Tie Dye - What You'll Need
  2. Workspace Preparation
  3. Tying Techniques
  4. Prepare to Dye
  5. Dye Application
  6. Wash the Clothing
  7. Tips

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