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Our family is traveling to witness the total solar eclipse and wanted fun shirts to where. There are a lot of tie-dye techniques. The one used today will show how to make a bulls-eye aka eclipse style tie-dye pattern like a pro!

WHAT YOU WILL NEED

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  • Dyeing Surface
  • Disposable Table Cloth
  • Tie-Dye Kit
  • Pitcher of Water
  • Ziplock Storage Bags
  • Cotton Shirt(s)

You will need to purchase a Tie-Dye Kit. Ours came with everything we needed except the fabric! The kit included: bottles pre-filled with dye, gloves, rubber bands and a drop cloth. We were able to dye three adult shirts and two children’s shirts, a pair of pants and a hair tie with just one large kit. We picked up the kit from the local craft store for about $15. Remember to always bring a coupon and look for sales! We caught a sale and got 5  cotton shirts for $10. You can use other fabrics but keep in mind that cotton absorbs the dye best.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR TIE-DYED SHIRT

 

Step 1:

Prior to dyeing, you will want to make sure you remove all tags and wash fabric items. For best results don’t dry your clothing while the fabric is still damp take it directly from the washer and prep it for dyeing.

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Step 2:

Lay the shirt on a flat surface. Grab the center of the shirt and pull up.

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Step 3:

Secure rubber bands to section off portions of the shirt. We did five sections.TD- WATER.jpg

Step 4:

Once your fabric is secured, it’s time to mix the dyes! Just fill water to the line and shake the dye bottles until all of the dye is mixed.TD- KID HELPER

Step 5:

Now for the fun part. Squeeze dye onto different sections of the shirt to your liking using a different color for each section.  Be sure to rotate and flip your fabric over so you don’t miss any spots.

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Step 6:

For the longest lasting and brightest colors; cover your tie dyed fabric in plastic to keep damp while the dye sets. Let it set for 4 to 6 hours.

Step 7: Follow the tie-dye instructions included in your kit for laundering.

 

TIPS FOR TIE DYING WITH KIDS

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TIPS AND SUGGESTIONS

So if  haven’t guessed already, tie-dying is a very messy process. Be prepared to have rainbow colored grass and even finger tips. To prevent a big mess I recommend having everything pre-set for the kids.

  • Where old clothing you don’t mind getting messy
  • Don’t go crazy with color, have your kids pick 3-5 colors
  • Have everything prepped and ready to go before inviting the kids over to craft
  • If you kids want to help you can have them shake the dyes once the water is poured and lids are secured
  • Help one child at a time, one on one attention is needed for younger children