Supplies
- Cotton Onesie
- Rit All-Purpose Liquid Dye: We Used Cherry Red
- Large Plastic Container
- Measuring Cup
- Salt
- Plastic Gloves
- Plastic Table Cover
- Paper Towels
- Rit ColorStay Dye Fixative
Time
1 HourTotal:
Difficulty
Beginner
Instructions
- Cover work area with plastic table cover and have paper towels handy to protect against any possible spills. Gather supplies.
- For best results, prewash onesie to remove any finishes that may interfere with dye absorption. Leave damp.
- Wearing rubber gloves, fill a large container or stainless steel sink with 3 gallons of very hot water. The water should ideally be 140ºF. If tap water is not hot enough, heat water on the stove and add to the dyebath.
- Add Cherry Red dye to dyebath.
- To enhance the color: (1) add one cup of salt when dyeing fabrics containing cotton, rayon, ramie or linen; (2) add one cup of vinegar when dyeing fabrics containing nylon, silk or wool. Add 1 teaspoon of dish detergent to help promote level dyeing.
- Test color by dipping a paper towel into the dyebath. If color is too light, add more dye. If color is too dark, add more water.
- Immerse onesie in dyebath. Stir slowly and continuously. The first 10 minutes are the most critical. Stirring helps to ensure an even color with no splotches.
- The onesie can remain in dyebath from 10 minutes up to one hour. When desired color is achieved, remove from dyebath. Fabric will look darker when wet and will dry lighter. Squeeze out excess dye.
- We recommend using Rit ColorStay Fixative immediately after dyeing and before washing to enhance color, increase color retention and prevent dye from bleeding into white areas. Follow these package instructions.
- Rinse in cool water until water runs clear.
- Wash in warm water with mild detergent, rinse and dry.
