If your dress is made from 2 different fibers, choose your dyeing method based on the highest percentage. For instance, if your dress is a blend of 70% cotton and 30% polyester, you would dye it as if it were entirely cotton. However, your results would likely be lighter than if your garment were 100% cotton.
If your dress is made from natural fibers, the fabric will singe and burn. [2] X Research source Polyester or acetate will melt rather than burn. It will have a strong toxic chemical smell, and it will leave behind small beads of black plastic. [3] X Research source
You may choose to double this amount if you are trying to achieve a darker color.
If you want to lighten your dress, you will need to use a commercial color remover before you dye it.
You may also want to keep old rags or paper towels nearby in case of spills.
The dress should be wet when you add it to the dye.
You can purchase commercially prepared color remover at the same place you buy your fabric dye. Do not attempt to lighten your garment with bleach, as you can permanently damage it.
Use 3 gallons (11 l) of water for every 1 pound (0. 45 kg) of water. If you prefer, you can use your washing machine. Adjust the settings to the smallest load and the hottest water.
If you’re using powdered dye, try dissolving it in a cup or bottle of very hot water, then pour the mixture into the larger bucket. To test the color of your dye, dip a piece of paper towel into the dye mixture. Keep in mind that this test will probably be a little darker than the finished product. If the color seems too dark, add more water. If it seems too light, add more dye.
Salt may slightly dull the shine of your satin fabric, so if you want your dress to remain shiny, opt for vinegar.
If you’re using a washing machine, you can either set it to agitate or you can stir the fabric manually with a spoon.
This method is more difficult and dangerous than dyeing natural fibers, so you may want to consider buying a new dress or fabric instead of trying to dye synthetic satin. [15] X Research source
The amount of dye you will need will depend on the weight of your dress and the shade you hope to achieve. Use 1 bottle of disperse dye to achieve a light shade on a white or light dress. Use 2 bottles of disperse dye to get a medium shade on a light-colored dress. Use 4 bottles of disperse dye if your dress is already a light-to-medium shade or to get a very dark color.
The packaging should tell you how much of the developer to add, depending on the weight of your dress. This developer has a strong smell, so make sure you do this in a well-ventilated area.
When the water runs clear, you have rinsed out most of the excess dye. If you are dyeing your garment in the washing machine, turn it to a warm-cool cycle.
If you can’t wait for your dress to air dry before you try it on, tumble dry it on low heat.
