How to Fix Clothes With Synthetic Dye

Stains and spills happen to the best of us and our favorite shirts. Fixing a new splotch with synthetic dye is a good DIY project with results that you control.

Instructions

• Spot Dyeing

Prepare your workspace. Lay your clothing item on a flat surface. 

 Mix dye per manufacturer instructions. For powder dyes or concentrated liquids, this may involve adding water and boiling. Wear rubber gloves.

Dip your applicator into the dye well and apply gently and evenly to your spots or stains. Let the dye set per manufacturer instructions.

Rinse the item under cool water, or blot with a wet sponge until clear, and allow to air dry. Repeat on the spot until desired color saturation is reached. If you do not get the results you are seeking, consider dyeing the entire item lighter or darker.

• Full Soak Dyeing

Mix dye or color remover in a large stove-top pot or top-loading washing machine per manufacturer instructions. Use the hottest water possible.

Place the clothing in the dye well and stir or agitate. Once you are satisfied with the saturation of the piece, let soak per manufacturer instructions.

Rinse the item in cool water until the water runs clear. When using a washing machine, let the cycle continue. Lay clothing flat or hang to air dry.