How to Dye Silk Thread

Silk thread, made from silk cocoons through fine processing, is originally white. Although factories dye silk thread in various colors to meet consumer choice, many artists engaged in Ronghua(velvet flowers) handicrafts prefer to dye silk thread themselves to achieve the unique visual effects they desire. The following will detail the specific process of natural silk dyeing.

Selection of Dyes and Ingredients

When dyeing silk thread, we usually choose to use acid dyes, while using neutral or active dyes as mordants. Regarding the color fixing treatment of silk thread, the materials used for color fixing on the market are mainly acid dye fixatives. However, since Ronghua(velvet flowers) cannot touch water, some Ronghua(velvet flowers) artists believe that there is no need for color fixing. For friends who have color fixing needs, you can try using glacial acetic acid for color fixing.

Dyeing Process

First, we need to prepare white silk thread, waterproof gloves, a dye pool, and two basins of water. It is recommended to prepare a basin of warm water and a basin of cold water for dyeing and washing off the floating color. We take out the warm water, unravel all the silk thread, and then fix the coil above with our hands. If we are dyeing a small amount, remember to tie it with a rope to prevent it from getting messy. Next, we first soak the silk in warm water. After soaking, we squeeze it dry and put it aside.

We will dye a peach pink color as a demonstration. First, we take out pink and red dyes, take a part of each in water to dissolve.

The amount of this dye is mainly related to the proportion of water, and the color that comes out will be lighter than the color of the water, you need to control it yourself.

If the silk thread you dye is less, you can choose a smaller container. After all is dissolved, we take out the silk thread we prepared earlier, disperse it, and then press it into the water, soaking it for about 10 minutes. During this period, be sure not to let the silk float on the water. During this period, the rope tied on the silk thread must be in your hand.

 After soaking, we take out the rope, and then squeeze the silk thread. After squeezing, we need to wash off its floating color. We soak the silk thread in another basin of normal temperature water, about one minute is enough. We can also toss it back and forth to promote it to wash off the surface floating color.

After going through this step, our silk will basically not fade as long as it is not soaked in water for a long time. Next, squeeze it dry.

Drying and Storage Process

After squeezing, we need to dry it. Note that we must dry it in a cool environment, as silk has poor light resistance. If it is exposed to the sun or dried with a dryer, it will affect its luster.

 After the silk is dried in the shade for 8 hours, it can be used normally.

The above is the detailed steps for dyeing silk thread, hope it helps you!