Tie Dyeing a T-shirt, pillowcase, towel, scarf or whatever you fancy is fun activity for kids – either by themselves or as a group activity.  There are many pre-assembled kits available for purchase or the supplies can be purchased at your local craft store.

Tie dye is a way of creating patterns or color in fabric by preventing the flow of dye into the folds of the fabric.  This is done by folding, tying , stitching or crumbling the fabric.  The end result is always a surprise – which is what it makes it so exciting for kids.

What you need:

• garment – natural fibers are best (ie: cotton)
• soda ash fixer
• gloves & mask recommended
• dye
• squirt bottles
• rubber bands or string
• plastic bag

Steps:

• using the string or rubber bands, create the pattern you desire on your garment – we like to find the center of the Tshirt and section off every inch to create rings – but you can be creative and tie off the garment in any way you like
• wear the mask and gloves, use 1 cup of soda ash fixer per gallon of warm water and soak the garment for about 15 minutes – squeeze out the excess water when done
• mix your dyes in the colors of your choice in the squeeze bottles  – follow the directions on the dye label as to how much water to add
• squirt your dye on the garment in the various sections
• put the garment in a plastic bag and let it set from 4 – 24 hours – the longer for the brighest colors – in a warm place
• rinse the garment in the sink thoroughly and remove the ties
• wash in the washing machine – it may take a few rinse cycles to get all the dye out – but just check the water to see that it is clear

Enjoy your new works of art!

    the folks at Cow & Lizard