Have you ever seen those clothes with more psychedelic prints and colorful designs? If so, then you know the tie dye technique
In case you don’t already know, tie dye is an English term that refers to the process of dyeing fabrics with dyes. In fact, if you translate this word into Portuguese we will have the words “amarrar e dyer”.
Basically, this technique of dyeing clothes stands out for always allowing the creation of a different and unique piece. Furthermore, it can promote super colorful, relaxed and also fun designs. And what’s best: all of this is done with a simple technique.
Above all, it is important to highlight that the tie dye technique was created centuries ago, and is seen in Asian, African and American cultures. However, it only really stood out during the hippie movement, which took place in the 1960s and 1970s.
Anyway, if you’re interested in this style of shirt, we’ve put together all the information you need.
Types of inks
A priori, you need to understand each type of dye, its properties and effects. Only then should you choose which one most closely matches your skills and your budget.
Direct dyes
It is worth mentioning that these dyes are the most used, especially by beginners. Well, they are cheaper and easier to find.
Furthermore, you will definitely find them in all colors. However, its downside is the fact that it fades faster and also requires more work time to create the print.
Fabric paint
Basically, this paint is one of the most recommended, precisely because it is more practical to handle and has a simpler dilution process.
However, you can also find product options that have already gone through this process. In other words, it can be even easier to use. However, it can be a little more expensive.
Reactive dyes
Firstly, it is important to highlight that these dyes are the best option for using the tie dye technique. Especially because its colors are intense. Furthermore, the price, durability and performance are excellent.
However, this dye is more difficult to find here in Brazil. And its preparation can also be more laborious.
How does it work or tie dye?
Basically, to make these t-shirts and other tie dye pieces, you will need to let your creativity flow. However, the first thing to do is get a light piece of clothing made from natural fabric.
So, it’s time to choose dyes, a color fixative, rubber bands or string. Gloves are also important to prevent damage to the skin, as are paper or newspapers to cover the surface and prevent damage.
It’s worth noting that even if you don’t have natural fabrics, you can do tie dye. However, it is recommended that you test it first, using a piece of the cloth you want to use, to see if it will really work.
In fact, in this process, the string or elastic is just as important as the paints. Because they are responsible for making your print unique, depending on how the fabric is tied.
Basically, when tied, parts of the fabric become isolated. So, that’s where the magic of the techniques happens, creating a mixture of mixed colored spots.
Step by step how to make a tie dye shirt
1- Prepare the fabric
A priori, the piece to be transformed needs to be clean. Because dirt can leave strange flaws in your print. The best option, in fact, is that you use water and neutral soap when washing.
After it is clean and dry, you can now twist the stretched shirt clockwise, starting from the center. Basically, if you do this, you will create a kind of snail at the end of the process.
Therefore, simply tie the roll forming an X. Finally, divide the tied fabric into four parts.
2- Dyeing part
Now that you’ve prepared the fabric, it’s time to play with colors. Therefore, before you start, boil water in different containers.
Then, pour each dye into its appropriate container. Also, remember to let them dilute well.
Now, if you are going to use fabric paints, first of all read the instructions on the packaging. But, normally, you should dilute them in small glasses of water, following the indicated measurements.
After preparing the paints, spray some water on the prepared t-shirt. But don’t soak it, just keep it damp.
Therefore, in each divided part of the shirt, you can start depositing the colored liquids little by little. If you want your t-shirt to be very colorful, alternate colors to create a more fun effect.
3- Fixation
This step will be for anyone using dye. If you use paint, you can skip this step.
Therefore, for those of you who used dye, it is important that after 30 minutes of the second stage, you apply the fixative. Because, with it, the colors will last longer. In fact, you can find dye fixative in the same place you buy pigments.
Now, if you want to save even more, you can make a homemade fixative recipe. To make it, you just need to boil a liter of water in a pan and add a tablespoon of coarse salt, another of white vinegar and another of fabric softener.
After that, you can let the fabric rest in the solution for 10 minutes.
4- Finishing
Lastly, we recommend that you leave the clothing in a dry, well-ventilated place away from the sun until the fabric dries completely.
Once dry, you can now cut the ties and wash with water and neutral soap as normal. In fact, it is important that you wash it so that you can remove all excess paint from your clothes.
Check out more tutorials
What did you think of our tips? Are you ready to make your tie dye clothes?
Read more: How to customize your cell phone case at home, with 9 easy tips
Sources: Free Ratchet
Images: Ratraca livre, Loja Noroeste, Carolaine Moreira, Elo 7, Danny Color, Wikipedia, Mundo tie dye, Isabella Barbi, Pinterest
