Ombré Dyeing

The Allure of Ombré

Just the word itself sounds alluring and intriguing. Ombré is a French word meaning "to shade" and is often used to describe a dip-dye effect given to fabric in which the shades of color graduate from light to dark. The most sophisticated look is based on a monochromatic color scheme, but three different complementary colors can also be combined. The look is all about color, with the feeling an artist has dipped and shaded the colors by hand.

This simple dyeing technique lends itself to all types of garments and fashion accessories. Depending upon the style of the garment, the finished effect can be quite different. This draped jersey one-strap shoulder dress was purchased white and then dip-dyed in Violet to make an elegant fashion-forward statement. For a more casual look, this summer sundress, originally white, was dip-dyed in Fuchsia to create a more colorful, festive effect.

Ombré Dyeing

Supplies Needed

• Rit Liquid or Powder Dye
• White Garment, cotton, rayon, linen, silk or nylon
• 2-Cup glass measuring cup
• 3-Gallon plastic bin or bucket
• Metal spoon
• Rubber gloves
• Salt
• Dishwashing liquid
• Dowel rod, 1" diameter
• Plastic cover or tablecloth

Instructions:

1. Launder dress to remove any finishes that may prevent absorption of dyes.
2. Cover work surface with a plastic cover or tablecloth.
3. Prepare Dye: Wearing rubber gloves, shake liquid dye bottle and measure ½ cup liquid dye or 1 box powder dye into a disposable container. Add 1 cup salt and 4 cups very hot water; stir well. Note: If water is not hot enough (140º F), heat water in the microwave or a tea kettle.
4. Pour dye solution into a 3-gallon plastic bin or container. Add 2 gallons very hot tap water and a squirt of liquid detergent; stir well.
5. Wet dress and squeeze out excess water. Wrap two-thirds of dress around a dowel rod. Immerse bottom one-third third of dress in dye bath for 10 minutes, gently moving it back and forth and up and down.
6. Then dip middle section of dress in dye bath for 5 minutes, gently lifting and lowering it to create lighter and darker shades or until desired shade is achieved.
7. Then, wearing rubber gloves, unroll top section of fabric and quickly dip dress in dye bath just long enough to achieve a very light shade.
8. Remove fabric from dye bath and wring out excess dye. Rinse fabric under cool running water, holding the lightest color at the top. This allows the dye to flow through to the darkest area. Then rinse fabric in warm water, until water runs clear. Wash fabric in warm water with detergent. Rinse thoroughly and wring out excess water. Machine dry or hang to dry.