How to Mix Procion Dyes

Procion dyes are the most colorfast dyes available to the home dyer. Procion develops the colors inside the fabric fibers instead of just laying color on top. This helps keep the color bright through washing and exposure to sunlight. Procion dyes begin to be active immediately after you mix them, but lose effectiveness after one to two hours. Prepare your fabric or fibers before mixing your dye, and have everything ready once you begin the process. Use plant-based fibers, such as cotton, linen and rayon, for the best results.

• 1

  Mix 1 tbsp. of dye powder with 1 tbsp. of cold water to make a paste. Stir this paste into 1 cup of hot tap water until the dye is completely dissolved.

• 2

  Dissolve 2 1/2 cups of table salt into 2 quarts of hot tap water in a bucket. Stir until all the salt has dissolved.

• 3

  Mix the salt solution and the dye solution in the second bucket or large pot. Add two gallons of warm water. Mix thoroughly.

• 4

  Submerge your pre-wetted fabric. Push the fabric down until it is completely under the liquid. Let the fabric soak under the liquid for six minutes.

• 5

  Dissolve 4 tbsp. of washing soda in 1 cup of hot water. Stir until the soda is completely dissolved.

• 6

  Pour the soda solution into the dye bath with the soaking fabric and stir.

• 7

  Stir the fabric and solution occasionally and allow the fabric to soak for at least 15 minutes. The longer you leave the fabric in, the deeper the color will become.

• 8

  Remove the fabric and rinse to remove excess dye after it has reached the desired color. Wash the fabric or fiber in hot water to set the dye, then air dry.