DIY Network

Potato Dextrin Resist Potato dextrin resist produces an effect similar to batik. From "Uncommon Threads" episode DUCT-103

Figure A

Sandra Woock, of Material Evolution, introduces potato dextrin resist, a surface design technique that produces lacy lines, like batik but without the wax, to create unique fabrics for art quilts (figure A).

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	Potato Dextrin Resist Art Quilt
	Art Quilt (detail)

Read about safety and equipment before starting reading through entire directions as well.

Materials:

fabric (1 yard each will allow for project, sampling and tests): 100 percent cotton in white (Kaufman Pimatex), black (Kaufman Prima Cotton), jet black (Pimatex or Spring Mills Natural Charm black)
[Note: Black fabrics vary when discharged, producing varied shades of red, orange, green or white. Please do a sample test to determine color before starting your project.]
Synthrapol soap
potato dextrin powder
soda ash (sodium carbonate alkaline fixative)
antichlor concentrate
monagum
household bleach
fiber-reactive dyes (Procion MX, for example)
urea
print paste mix or sodium alginate

Tools:

2 reusable boards (3/4" blue construction foam insulation cut to a manageable size or plastic sheeting to cover table)
egg timer
masking tape
t-pins
saucepan with lid and hotplate or stove top (can use microwave)
measuring spoons and cups
whisk
spoon, spatula
implements for spreading (8"plastic taping knife, squeegee, etc.)
synthetic nylon brushes, foam brushes

To finish as art quilt:

cotton batting
rayon or polyester threads
sewing machine

Safety notes: Please observe the following precautions whenever you are dyeing or working with bleach.

• Follow all of the manufacturer's safety precautions.

• Use gloves and a dust mask when you're mixing powdered chemicals, dyes and potato dextrin.

• Wipe up spills immediately with, and discard, a damp paper towel.

• Wear old clothes and an apron or smock.

• Do not eat or drink while you work with dyes.

• Use equipment for dyeing only, not for food preparation.

• Do not dye in the kitchen.

• Use a full-face respirator mask with acid cartridges for working with chlorine bleach.

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