DIY Network

Dyeing to Quilt The members of Material Evolution create a circle-design quilt. From "Uncommon Threads" episode DUCT-148

(Continued from page 2)

Christine Ambrose demonstrates how to dye thread: how to wrap the threads, how to paint on the dye and how to cure and set the dye.

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	Hand-Dyed Thread
	Six-strand rayon floss (left) and #12 perle cotton thread (right)

Hand-Dyed Thread

Materials:

scissors
cardboard
zipper-style storage bags (gallon-size)
tape
Procion H-series liquid dye
chemical water (a blend of water, urea and sodium alginate used with reactive dyes to create a dye solution)
Pro-fix
stiff-bristle brushes (1/8"-2" wide)
#12 perle cotton thread
6-strand rayon floss
Synthrapol (a special detergent used to remove excess dye particles after dyeing)
towel
plastic tray
sink
rubber or latex gloves
spool

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

1. Cut the cardboard to fit in the storage bag and seal it inside.

2. Tape the end of the thread or floss to the upper left-hand corner of the covered cardboard. Wind it tightly, keeping tension on the thread and not overlapping the wrapped rows (figure A). Tape down the other end.

Tip: Select colors that make a desirable middle color when blended (ie., red to yellow will blend to orange).

3. Put on rubber or latex gloves and, working over a plastic tray or other plastic surface (figure B), apply the first color of liquid dye with a stiff paintbrush, working the dye into the fiber. The thread should be thoroughly wet, but not so wet that it drips.

5. Apply the second dye color and blend the two together with chemical water.

6. Pour small amount (maybe one or two tablespoons) of fixative into plastic or glass cup (figure C). Paint on fixative with a stiff bristled 2" brush until all thread is covered, but not dripping.
7. Place dyed thread with fixative in plastic bag.

8. Let cure overnight.

Tip: Do not let thread dry with fixative on it. Moisture must be present to set the dye, which keeps it from washing out or fading.

9. Using rubber gloves and working over the sink, remove the wrapped thread from the outer bag. Apply a small amount of Synthrapol, a soap that's especially good for removing excess dye, or any mild liquid soap such as shampoo to the thread; lather and rinse under hot tap water.

10. When the water runs clear, blot the thread with old towel.

11. Let the thread dry indoors on a clean towel or hang on the clothesline to dry.

12. Wind the thread onto a spool.

Safety Precautions

Aytime you use dye and auxiliaries, it's vital that you follow the following safety precautions:

• Dedicate all cups, utensils and work areas to dye use.

• Never eat or drink while you are working.

• Do not use dye containers for food or drink.

• Be neat: clean up your work area completely and carefully.

• Don't put or hold paintbrushes in your mouth.
  

• Use rubber or latex gloves when washing or rinsing dyed fabric or thread.

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RESOURCES :

Dharma Trading Co. dyeing supplies, fabric and blanks
Dharma Trading Co.
Website: www.dharmatrading.com

Pro Chemical and Dyes dyeing supplies, chemicals for fiber arts, kits and books
Website: www.prochemical.com

GUESTS :

Carol Krueger
Websites: www.carolkrueger.com
www.materialevolution.com

Christine Ambrose
E-mail: christine@christineambrose.com
Website: www.christineambrose.com
Website: www.materialevolution.com

Lisa Call
E-mail: lisa@lisacall.com
Website: www.lisacall.com