Swirl Tie Dye Pattern

Supplies:

• tie dye kit (dye, gloves, rubber bands)
• white t-shirt
• plastic gallon bag
• plastic (to cover work surface)
• bucket, optional

Steps:

1. You have two options to get started. If you prewash your shirt, you will want to leave it wet and work with it straight out of the washer. If your shirt is already dry you will want to get it wet and wring out any excess water. NOTE: My shirts were dry so I had a bucket of water that I dunked each shirt into.

 

 
2. Lay the shirt out flat. Then grab hold of the center of the shirt and gently twist it causing the shirt to swirl around the pinched point. Use your other hand to guide the shirt into the swirled shape.

 

 
Advertisement


3. Use 3 rubber bands to hold the shirt in the swirl. The rubber bands will segment the shirt into 6 sections.

 

 
4. Apply color to each of the 6 sections. You want to apply enough color to penetrate the folds of the shirt, without over saturating it. Turn the bundled shirt over and apply color to the other side.

 
5. Place the shirt into a gallon bag and zip it shut. Allow the dye to set for a minimum of 6-8 hours. The longer it sets, the more vibrant the colors will be.

 
Advertisement


6. Rinse the shirt under cold water, until the water runs clear. Remove the rubber bands and rinse a little more. Wring out excess water.

 

 

 
7. Place in the washing machine. Wash with a little soap, white vinegar (optional) and HOT water. For a top loader: set it for the largest load. For a front loader: set it on the longest setting and do a second rinse. Dry the shirt in the dryer.