Need Help Coloring Fabric- Before Halloween

Cafe Society
1

I have two bed sheets. The pattern looked jester-y to me. So I decided to dye the black and white fabric green to match a very fine black and green jester cap I was given years ago.

The first time, the fabric didn’t dye at all. I asked advice and was told I probably had not used hot enough water.

The second time, the fabric took the dye but didn’t really hold it. About 90 % of the dye (Rit brand Emerald) washed out.

I tried using a Sharpie permanent marker. It works, but is time consuming and fume intensive.

Should I go to the craft store and get fabric markers? Or fabric spraypaint?

I appreciate any advice you can give.

ETA

according to the tag I just found the fabric is 50% cotton, 50% polyester

2

See if Rit’s DyeMore is available in your area. It’s the polyester that’s rejecting your regular dye.

3

Well, there’s your problem.

Regular Rit won’t do well with polyester. But I googled and found they make a product that does: https://www.ritstudio.com/2015/04/15/announcing-rit-dyemore-rits-new-polyester-dye/

Hopefully you can find it in your area.

4

I was going to ask what the fiber was - RIT works best on things like cotton and wool, not so much on synthetics. You want a dye intended for polyester, or a fabric paint.

5

Thanks for your help. I obtained Rit Dyemore today. I thought I followed the directions, but the dye neither took nor held. Fortunately, I bought some non fuming DecoFabric green markers. These work very well. My only problem is that the company’s website recommends heat setting. I don’t own an iron.

6

Heat up a sauce pan of water, not too hot, and you have a temporary iron.

7

A hair dryer set on highest heat should work as well.