How to Tie Dye - Beginner's Guide

classic tie dye technique

Keyword tie dye

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Soak Time 6

Total Time 6 20

Begin by washing the garments you plan to dye.
Scrunch up your item as desired and then add rubber bands.
Then, mix your dyes according to the package instructions.
Cover your area with a drop cloth to protect it from any dye spills.
Wear disposable gloves as you work to protect your hands.
Add dye to the prepared fabric and allow to soak for the recommended time. The dye I used suggested 4-6 hours.
Before throwing your tie-dye garments in the washing machine, give them a good rinse in the bathtub or kitchen sink. I recommend wearing gloves again for this step.
Remove the rubber bands and rinse until the water runs clean.
Then, wash them in the washing machine, or as you normally would.

If the garments you are dyeing are things you already own and have washed before, you can skip washing them.
See post for examples of different tie-dye patterns you can try.
I know it may not seem necessary, but I do think it’s best to wash newly dyed items separate from other clothing the first time. Even if you rinse it well, the dye could ruin other clothing you are not wanting to dye.