How to Dye Using the Stovetop Method

If you are dyeing a natural fabric (such as cotton, linen, silk, wool or ramie) with Rit All-Purpose Dye, using the stovetop method is ideal for achieving as bold or dark of a color as possible.

If you are dyeing an item that contains more than 35% synthetic fabric (such as polyester, acrylic, acetate or nylon), then you must use the stovetop method with Rit DyeMore Synthetic Fiber Dye.

So… if you have either of these goals in mind, you’ve come to the right place!

Before using this method, make sure you have a pot big enough for your dye project. You will need to fill it with enough water for the fabric to move freely. If there isn’t enough water, then the dye could absorb unevenly. We recommend 3 gallons of water per one pound of fabric.

Important Notes

Color
If the garment you are dyeing is white or off white, then you should be able to achieve true color. If the garment has an existing color, then please review our instructions on how to change the color of a garment.

Patterns and Logos
If the garment you are dyeing has a pattern or logo, the color you use will mix with the existing color(s) in the fabric and create new colors. To learn more about this, please review our instructions on overdyeing patterns and logos.

Bleach Stains and Sun Damage
Sun and bleach actually damage fabric, making it very difficult to dye. If you still want to try and dye a garment with bleach or sun damage, you could try using Rit Color Remover on the garment before dyeing. Unfortunately we cannot guarantee this will work.