Choose a dye type: fabric dye, dye powder, or dye kits
Pre-wash the fabric to remove sizing
Dry the fabric slightly or keep it damp for better dye uptake
Gather supplies: fabric, dye, rubber gloves, plastic squeeze bottles or bottles, soda ash (if using), plastic wrap or trash bags, rubber bands, squeeze bottles, buckets/basins, paper towels, and a rack or tray
Protect your workspace with plastic sheeting or a large plastic table cover
Wear gloves
Prepare dye according to package directions
Soak fabric in soda ash solution (if required by your dye instructions), then wring out excess
Decide a tie-dye style: spiral, swirl, bullseye, crumple, stripes, or chevrons
Secure the fabric with rubber bands to create resist areas
Apply dye to the fabric while it’s tightly bound
Saturate each section evenly with different colors if desired
Wrap the tied fabric in plastic wrap or place in a sealed plastic bag
Let dye set for the time specified by the dye instructions (commonly 6–24 hours)
Rinse in cool water until water runs mostly clear
Unwrap carefully and rinse again, using cool water first
Wash separately in cold or warm water with mild detergent
Dry the fabric
Keep dyed items away from light-colored fabrics until fully rinsed and washed