Muslin Fabric Dyeing Techniques

Direct Dyeing

• Direct dye process is used when applying natural dyes to the muslin. Dyes from berries, flowers or tree bark are fermented or boiled to extract the color. While the dye is being extracted the fabric is soaked in a heated solution of fixative, either vinegar or salt, and water. Then the fabric and dye are placed together in enough water to cover and left until the desired depth of color is achieved. During the dye process, the fabric and natural ingredients are stirred occasionally to ensure a consistent, all-over color.

Heat Dye Bath

• Used mostly with synthetic dyes, heat dye begins with water heated just to the boiling point and dye added along with a fixative agent. The temperature is then reduced and the muslin is placed in the hot water and stirred frequently for a solid color or not stirred at all for a splotchy effect. The fabric may have to simmer for an hour to achieve the desired depth of color. Once the color is achieved the fabric is rinsed thoroughly to remove excess dye materials.

Tie Dyeing

• Tie dying involves twisting the muslin and tying off the end with string or rubber bands. These ties eventually result in patterns and shapes to take place in the fabric. Once tied, the fabric is dipped or immersed in one color at a time until the final results are achieved. The muslin can be died in multiple colors for a rainbow effect or one color to obtain a random look backdrop, like the kind used in professional photography.

Spray Dyeing

• In spray dyeing, the muslin lays flat on a surface. Small, shaped objects -- like tree branches, leaves, pieces of cardboard or any other substance that can absorb small amounts of water -- are placed on top. Watered down fabric paints or bleach are sprayed onto the muslin. For bleach to be effective, the muslin must be unbleached previously and still be the natural off white color.