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Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: Stone Knife on October 01, 2007, 03:40:00 PM

Title: Dying wool ?
Post by: Stone Knife on October 01, 2007, 03:40:00 PM
I want to dye an old wool sweater black to use in my DB blind, but i don't want to shrink it. Anyone ever try this? Can i just use rit in cold water.
Title: Re: Dying wool ?
Post by: BobW on October 01, 2007, 04:12:00 PM
It is the heat & tumble that kills them.  Dry it on a rack and it should be good (otherwise, looks like your son has a sweater for the blind)  :biglaugh:
Title: Re: Dying wool ?
Post by: Huntschool on October 01, 2007, 04:36:00 PM
Some wool materials will need a "mordent" to get the dye to take.  Plain white vinegar works if memory serves but ya might want to check on that.

BobW is right, do not put it in the drier.  Good cleaners do what is called "blocking" to keep it in size.
Title: Re: Dying wool ?
Post by: woodchucker on October 01, 2007, 10:20:00 PM
Put a 6' broom stick through the sleeves and hang it kiddy-korner acrossed the top of your porch railing.
Title: Re: Dying wool ?
Post by: WindWalker-AK on October 01, 2007, 11:24:00 PM
Mr. Stone Knife,
We just dyed two pairs of wool pants.  We dissolved each packet (two) of Rit dye in two cups of hot water and added that to luke warm water in a bucket large enough to hold the garment.  We used hand agitation (wear rubber gloves!) off an on for 30 minutes.  Rinsed as directed and hung outside to dry.  Changed the color from gray to a darker shade of green.  Pleased with the result.  No shrinkage.
Best Wishes