Dip-Dye Tablecloth & Napkins

Step 2:

- Now fold the length in half once.

- Measure up from the finished edge of the tablecloth 10” and mark this point with a straight pin. Now measure up 10” from the first straight pin and mark a second point with another straight pin. Flip the tablecloth over and repeat. The pins will act as a guide as to how deep to dip the tablecloth into the dye bath.

Step 3:

Preparing the Dye Bath:

Tip: This is a large project that will require careful handling so have a friend close by to help you out. Make sure you clean or change your rubber gloves between the dyeing of each color.

- Cover work surface with a plastic table cover.

- Pour 3 quarts of very hot water (140º F) into a large dyeing container. Measure 1/2 cup of Purple dye and 1/2 cup salt; add to dye bath. Then add one squirt of liquid dish detergent. Be sure to stir the dye bath well.



Dyeing the Tablecloth and Napkins:

- Holding the tablecloth by the upper folded edge, dip the tablecloth into the Purple dye bath up to the first straight pin. Allow the tablecloth to sit in the dye bath about 3-5 minutes. Then pull the tablecloth out of the dye bath. Check to see that the dye has penetrated all layers of fabric.

You may have to re-dip it. Squeeze out any excess dye. Carefully hang the tablecloth over the clothesline while dyeing the napkins.

Step 4:

- Immerse the four napkins into the Purple dye bath and allow them to soak for 3-5 minutes. Remove the napkins from the dye bath and squeeze out any excess dye. Rinse in cold water until the water runs clear. Wash in warm water with mild detergent; rinse and hang on the clothesline to dry.

Step 5:

- Prepare second dye bath: Pour 3 quarts of very hot water (140º F) into a large dyeing container. Measure 1/2 cup of Apple Green dye and 1/2 cup salt; add to dye bath. Then add one squirt of liquid dish detergent. Be sure to stir the dye bath well.

- With clean gloves, invert the tablecloth and dip the folded end into the Apple Green dye bath up to the pin mark. Allow the table cloth to sit in the dye bath for 3-5 minutes. Then slowly pull the tablecloth out of the dye bath. Check to see that the dye is penetrating all layers of fabric. You may have to re-dip it. Squeeze out any excess dye.

Step 6:

- Carefully hang the tablecloth over the clothesline while you prepare the next dye bath.

- Discard the Apple Green dye bath and rinse out the dyeing container.

Step 7:

- Prepare third dye bath: Pour 3 quarts of very hot water (140º F) into a large dyeing container. Measure 1/2 cup of Evening Blue dye and 1/2 cup salt; add to dye bath. Then add one squirt of liquid dish detergent. Be sure to stir the dye bath well.

- With clean gloves and holding the tablecloth by the two dyed ends, (this is where your friend’s help comes in!) immerse the un-dyed portion into the Evening Blue dye bath up to the straight pins. It’s OK if the colors overlap a little. The colors will blend, adding more visual interest to the tablecloth. Allow the tablecloth to sit in the dye bath for 3-5 minutes. Make sure the dye is penetrating all layers of fabric. Squeeze out any excess dye.

- Carefully unfold the tablecloth and rinse in cool water with a garden hose until the water runs clear. Have your friend help you with this!

Step 8:

- Wash tablecloth in warm water with mild detergent, rinse and hang on clothesline to dry. Press with a steam iron.