How to Dye Using the Microwave Method
Supplies Needed
- Rit All-Purpose Dye
- Rit ColorStay Dye Fixative (Recommended)
- Microwave
- Microwave Safe Container
- Plastic Wrap
- Measuring Cup
- Rubber Gloves
- Plastic Table Cover
This is a fast, easy dyeing technique for small items. Rit works best in hot water and the heat from the microwave speeds up the dyeing process, heating the water so the dye absorbs quickly into the fabric. Perfect for tie-dyeing, wax-less batik dyeing, dye painting, dyeing paper and marbling up to one yard of fabric.
Important Notes
Heat-Sensitive Items
Avoid dyeing heat-sensitive fibers, such as rayon, wool and very sheer nylon. Never microwave anything containing metal, such as zippers, snaps and studs. Unlike other methods, it is not necessary to use salt or vinegar.
Synthetic Fabrics
If you are dyeing synthetic fabric (i.e. fabric containing more than 35% polyester, acrylic or acetate) with Rit DyeMore, then you cannot use this method. Due to the complexity of dyeing synthetics, you must use the stovetop method to maintain an almost boiling temperature for the duration of your dyeing.
Colour
If the garment you are dyeing is white or off white, then you should be able to achieve true colour. If the garment has an existing colour, then please review our instructions on how to change the colour of a garment.
Patterns and Logos
If the garment you are dyeing has a pattern or logo, the colour you use will mix with the existing colour(s) in the fabric and create new colours. To learn more about this, please review our instructions on overdyeing patterns and logos.
Bleach Stains and Sun Damage
Sun and bleach actually damage fabric, making it very difficult to dye. If you still want to try and dye a garment with bleach or sun damage, you could try using Rit Color Remover on the garment before dyeing. Unfortunately we cannot guarantee this will work.
Instructions
- Fibre content and weight affect how colour appears. If you are in doubt as to whether your fabric will accept dye or achieve the colour you want, we recommend testing a swatch first.
- Before dyeing, remove any visible stains on the garment. This will help achieve uniform colour results when dyeing. Pre-wash item in warm, soapy water without any fabric softener. This helps to remove any finishes that may interfere with dye absorption.
- Cover work area with plastic table cover and have paper towels handy to protect against any possible spills.
- Fill a microwave safe container with very hot water, enough to cover your item (950 mL – 1.9 L).
- If using liquid dye, pour 120 mL of well-shaken dye into the container and stir well. If using powder dye, dissolve 1 package of dye in 470 mL of very hot water and stir well. Pour into container and stir well.
- Wet the fabric in warm water and squeeze out excess water.
- Immerse item into dyebath and gently push down with a spoon so it is completely covered by the dye. Cover container with plastic wrap. If dye-painting or wax-less batik dyeing, wrap fabric in plastic wrap, sealing the outer edges.
- Line bottom of the microwave with paper towels to protect against spills. Place container in microwave and set on high for 1-2 minutes. Check after 1 minute to be sure plastic is not melting as the power of microwaves varies. If dyeing nylon, only heat it for 15-30 seconds, and not for longer than 1 minute, as it is very heat sensitive. Watch fabric closely while doing this.
- Carefully remove the container from the microwave. The plastic wrap will be hot so wait a few minutes for it to cool.
- Remove plastic wrap and remove item from the dye bath.
- To enhance the color and reduce color bleeding, use Rit ColorStay Dye Fixative immediately after dyeing and before washing, following these instructions.
- Rinse in cool water until rinse water begins to run clear.
- Wash in warm water with a mild detergent, rinse and dry.
- Clean microwave safe container with soap, water and chlorine bleach.