Article: Josie Hogben from Ideas
Image: Ideas

Synthetic fabrics do not absorb the dye as well as natural ones do, and they will produce colour shades different to those indicated on the packaging. The final colour will always depend on the original colour of the fabric, for example a yellow piece of fabric, which is dyed blue, will turn green.

If you're worried about dyeing coloured fabric, you can use a pre-dye product to strip the colour of the fabric to a neutral shade before applying the dye.

Before you start
Weigh the dry fabric, then check the instructions on the packaging to see how much dye you will need. Make sure the basin, bucket, saucepan or other containers that you will be using, are large enough to hold the dye solution and the fabric.

You need to be able to stir the dye solution frequently, otherwise the end result will be blotchy because the fabric will not be able to absorb the dye evenly.

Dyeing the fabric
Follow the instructions on the packaging to dye the fabric. Remember to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.

Fixing the dye
You need to fix the dye after dyeing the fabric so the dye won't run, and to ensure that as much of the dye as possible stays behind on the fabric.
You can buy a ready-made dye fixative or use household salt. Check the instructions on the packaging of the dye. Once you have applied the fixative and the fabric is dry, use an iron to heat-set the colour.

Dyeing printed fabric
You don't have to stick to plain fabrics when dyeing. Prints create completely different effects that can be rather pretty.

We used printed cotton fabric from Biggie Best to create the cover for the storage box pictured here. We also trimmed the lid with fabric flowers and organza ribbon.

If you would like to decorate an item with lace and other trims, you can dye them at the same time as the fabric, then sew them on afterwards.

Do you have additional tips on how to dye fabric? Share them with us by posting a comment below.