Dyes: Does dye in paste-form exist? Can I make it at home?

I’m looking to paint a design on fabric (something simple) with dye, but I’m concerned about bleeding. Is there such a thing as dye paste? I need a thick dye that won’t run as much as traditional RIT dye. Is there some kind of powder (cornstarch?) I can mix it with that will turn it into an effective paste? anyone have any ideas?
*i know i can’t make dye at home, i’m wondering if i can make *dye paste* at home. like dye + something else.

Yes, you can thicken dyes at home. I’d suggest one of the food thickeners like guar, or a cooked starch gel. Sodium alginate (a seaweed extract) is usually used.

More:

http://www.dharmatrading.com/html/eng/2008-AA.shtml

Check your library for books on fabric painting. Some recent titles:

http://www.dharmatrading.com/html/eng/1250867-AA.shtml?lnav=books.html

(BTW, Rit tends to run and fade forever — I wouldn’t use it on a project that you wanted to put much effort on.)

Close-Up: Hand-Dyeing at Home

Comments are closed