How to Tie-Dye Synthetic Fabrics with Rit DyeMore - Step by Step Guide
Posted by Ciara on 11th Apr 2024
Tie-Dyed Synthetic Fabrics
One of the most common questions we have been getting lately is how to dye synthetics (like polyester) with Rit DyeMore. Well, here is how! And what better way to demonstrate than by customising a pair of leggings.
Supplies
- Rit DyeMore Synthetic Dye
- Dyebath
- Rubber Bands
- Tongs
- Scissors
- Mild Detergent
- Rubber Gloves
Time
Less than 1 Hour + Drying Time
Skill Level
Beginner
SHOP THE PRODUCTS
STEP BY STEP
Step 1.
Prewash leggings in warm, soapy water. This helps to remove any finishes that may interfere with dye absorption.
Step 2.
Leave the fabric damp and lay it out on a flat surface.
Step 3.
For this project, we did the scrunch technique. For instructions on how to do other techniques, check out our complete tie-dye for synthetics tutorial here.
Step 4.
Scrunch the leggings together to form a flat ball.
Step 5.
Secure with rubber bands. The more tightly you secure the scrunch, the more white space you will see in the final result.
Step 6.
Now it is time to create your dyebath.
Step 7.
Fill a stainless steel pot with three gallons of hot water.
Step 8.
Cover pot and heat water on stove top to just below boiling (or 180 F°).
Step 9.
Wearing gloves, add 1/2 bottle of well-shaken dye.
Step 10.
Mix well.
Step 11.
Wet leggings and add them to dyebath.
Step 12.
Stir occasionally for 5 to 30 minutes. Allow more time if dyeing 100% polyester. The longer the fabric is in the dye bath, the darker the color will be. Please note that fabric will look darker when wet and will dry lighter.
Step 13.
When desired colour is achieved, remove wrapped fabric from the dyebath. Squeeze out excess dye.
Step 14.
Rinse in warm water and then gradually cool water until rinse water begins to run clear.
Step 15.
Carefully remove rubber bands with a scissors and unfold the fabric.
Step 16.
Wash in warm water with a mild detergent, rinse and dry.