Get Plaid-Happy With A Dye Painted Silk Scarf

Step 2:

2) Lay out layers of overlapping plastic wrap slightly larger than size of the scarf. Lay scarf flatly on top of plastic wrap.

3) Grab your rubber gloves. Shake, measure and mix 1 tsp of Tangerine + 1 tsp of Sunshine Orange with 1 cup of very hot 140˚F water in a 1 cup container. Mix well.

4) Using just the tip of a chisel-tipped foam brush, dye-paint fine diagonal lines across the entire scarf. A light touch is advised, as the lines will bleed out slightly for a softer look. These lines don't need to be perfect. Small imperfections or drips can actually add a nice natural feel to your scarf.

Step 3:

5) Next, dye-paint lines in the opposite direction. Experiment with different spacing if you like for a more interesting plaid effect.

Note: Set aside your dye solution. It will be used later.

6) Allow scarf to dry fully.

Step 4:

7) In order to create a steamy environment needed to heat set the dyes in the microwave, spray the scarf with water to fully dampen.

8) Cover with another layer of overlapping plastic wrap to cover the scarf. Seal top and bottom layers of plastic wrap. Fold wrapped scarf to fit into microwave.

Step 5:

9) Line bottom of microwave with paper towels. Lay wrapped scarf in microwave and set on HIGH for 30 seconds. Watch carefully. Let cool for a few moments and repeat for another 30 seconds. Let cool fully and unwrap.

Step 6:

10) For added fun, try a dip-dye accent! Grab those rubber gloves again. Heat 1 quart of very hot 140˚F water and pour into 1 gallon plastic container. Add your previous dye solution to the hot water and mix well.

11) Dip just the scarf ends into dye bath until desired shade is achieved.


12) Rinse in cool water until water runs clear. Wash in warm water with mild detergent, rinse and hang dry. Iron if you like.