So I decided to Martha Stewart-MacGuyver it. For $1.50 (after a Michaels coupon) I had a package of Rit fuschia fabric dye. I considered orange or yellow, but ultimately went with my gut…pink.
If you’re looking to dye a dingy sweater using the bucket method, gather the following things:
- Dingy sweater
- Gloves rubber
- Grungy clothes to wear (white T-shirts need not apply)
- Food service bucket
- Something to stir with
- Hot water
- Sink (preferably not the stainless steel sink mounted underneath your granite countertops)
- 1 cup salt (for best results) if you’re dyeing cotton
The Rit package also has instructions for using the stovetop and washing machines. Pick the best method for you and read all instructions before starting.
I wore my “new” sweater to work on Tuesday paired with my favorite pencil skirt, black patent pumps, and girly accessories. I knew a pink sweater was the right decision when a coworker asked where I got it. I shared my little secret and now she’s contemplating what to dye of her daughter’s clothes.
I have only every dyed some things back to black as they faded a wee bit. Love the pink cardi though, great idea.
It looks like new! So fiscally chic :)
i love that you dyed something. i’m too scared to try! but maybe you’ve inspired me!
Thanks, ladies!
Kati – I’ve actually thought about dyeing something for months now. But finally pulled the trigger over the weekend. As for bleach, that still intimidates me.
I use the clothes washer to dye stuff a lot… it’s super good for halloween costumes using resale shop items! I just run a bleach cycle afterwards and I’m good to go. Of course, we have an older washer. Maybe I’d feel differently if I had a fancy new one. Adding the salt is my #1 tip! I never dye without it! And I never drop clothing in the dye vat without thoroughly wetting it first. It’s fun to experiment with different items, because they all take the dye differently – sometimes the trim on an item completely resists the dye while the rest gets bright!
I’m so impressed! This is awesome :)