Easy Tie and Dye

Most parents shy away from attempting tie and dye experiments with their children as such activities can involve the use of chemicals and cause a big mess. The method below is simple and foolproof. And better yet, it uses all-natural dyes in the form of turmeric powder. Other natural dye options include beetroot juice (for purple), chopped red cabbage and red onion skins (for pink).

WHAT YOU NEED

• T-shirt/ handkerchief/ cloth you would like to dye
• 2 tablespoons turmeric powder
• Two large pots
• Water
• 1 cup vinegar
• String or rubber bands
• Pair of gloves

METHOD

• Begin by tieing strings or rubber bands tightly at regular intervals along the t-shirt or cloth you are planning to dye.
• Before dyeing the cloth, it is important to prepare it using a fixative.
• In a pot, mix 1 cup vinegar with 4 cups of water and bring to a boil. Once it is boiling, immerse your prepared cloth and boil on a low-medium heat for 1 hour.
• Remove the cloth after an hour using tongs and keep aside to cool.
• Once it is cool enough to handle, wring it out, removing any excess liquid.
• In another pot, mix the turmeric and 4 cups of water and bring to a boil. Simmer for 1 hour and then remove from the heat.
• Make sure you wear your gloves for this next step.
• Immerse the cloth into the water and keep it submerged till you see the cloth dyed to your desired shade.
• The longer you keep the cloth immersed, the darker the colour will be.
• Remove from the pot and rinse in cool water until the water runs clear.
• Remove the rubber bands or string and hang it up to dry.