After years of putting off a tie-dye sesh with the kids, we finally ripped off the bandaid last week and not only was it a lot less messy than I had imagined, but also so fun and everything turned out realllll cute! Here’s the how to!
EASY TIE-DYE WITH KIDS!
YOU’LL NEED:
- dye – we used these spray bottles (in neon but the classic colors look fun too – here’s a smaller set) and they works so good!
- things to tie dye :) – we ordered a pack of big socks, a pack of smaller socks, and a couple tees to start, but have 8 more tees (cut hem off bottom and sleeve to customize sizing!) waiting to be tie-dyed, lol. It’s addicting!
- a bin or bucket of water if your working outside (to get clothes/items damp).
- a drop cloth or sheet for your workspace.
- rubber bands (we used the mini clear hair ties but I suggest having those and bigger rubber bands).
- a place to let your creations dry!
HERE’S HOW:
- Pre-wash all your clothes/totes/blankets/towels/etc. (Highly suggest, but might not be necessary)
- Prep workspace and get all supplies out. Get your clothing/items damp – wring out well!
- Twist, bunch and wrap items. Secure with rubber bands… There’s a couple examples below of how things turn out.
- Spray items with your dye!
- Cut off rubber bands and lay out or hang to dry… We let sit for at least 12 hours to let the dye set.
- Wash on cold before wearing!
Honestly can’t get over how much fun everyone had and while you might want to be better than I was at making sure all participants are in clothes that are ok to get dye on, the entire process was a lot less messy than I had imagined.
If you’re looking for more of a subtle or almost watercolor look, the bunching and twisting technique (shown above) worked well. For more of a saturated and striped look, check out Tilly’s sock below. The other method the kids used for more of a round burst look is to band small bunches together (like polka dots!). The video included with the spray gives a few good examples too.
Here’s how they turned out!
Everyone has had fun wearing their creations (Tilly wearing her socks above!)! I’ll try and hop on stories later today to show more and if the weather holds off I have another tie dye technique using ice that I’ve been wanting to try.
Have you guys hopped on the the-dye bandwagon yet!? I can’t get enough of the home made or store versions!
xo, Rae
Sprays!! Ah, perfect for kids. I recently Ice dyed a baby swaddle blanket. I had to wait until bedtime, but would have preferred to include the kids. This is great, thanks!
Yes, totally! Excited to try the ice dye… hopefully the kids still think it’s fun :)