Bring Your Faded Jeans Back to Life: UK Guide to Dyeing Denim Black with Jacquard® iDye
Skill level: Easy–Intermediate · Time: 1–2 hours hands-on (+ washing/drying) · Audience: Home Crafters and DIYers.
Why Jacquard® iDye for Denim?
- Formulated for natural fibres (cotton, linen, rayon) — perfect for UK denim.
- Simple process — dissolve packet in hot water or use a washing machine method.
- Rich, permanent colours — black stays deep rather than going greyish.
- UK-friendly availability — widely available online and in craft stores.
Use iDye Poly only if you’re dyeing synthetics like polyester. For denim (cotton), stick to iDye Natural Fibres.
What You’ll Need (UK DIY Kit)
- 1 packet Jacquard iDye Black (Natural Fibres) per pair of jeans (heavier jeans may need 2)
- Large stainless steel or enamel pot OR top-loading washing machine
- Wooden spoon or tongs (dedicated to dyeing)
- Measuring jug & kettle
- Salt (1 cup / ~250 g for cotton)
- Rubber gloves
- Apron or old clothes
- Mild laundry detergent
- Old towels to protect surfaces
- Optional: iDye Fixative
Safety First
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Wear gloves and old clothes; dye is permanent.
- Cover work surfaces.
- Use non-food utensils.
- Keep children and pets away.
- Dispose of dye bath responsibly.
Step-by-Step: Preparing Your Jeans
- Check fibre content — mostly cotton.
- Pre-wash to remove dirt and oils.
- Inspect wear — thin or frayed areas may show through.
- Protect trims — metal rivets, zips, leather patches.
Dyeing Methods
Stove-Top Method
- Fill pot with enough hot water for jeans to move freely.
- Dissolve dye packet in boiling water, pour into pot.
- Add salt (250 g for cotton).
- Add damp jeans. Stir gently.
- Simmer 30–60 minutes, stirring regularly.
- Rinse under cool water until clear.
- Wash separately with mild detergent.
- Air-dry away from direct sunlight.
Washing Machine Method
- Set machine to hottest wash cycle (60–90°C).
- Dissolve dye in hot water, pour into drum.
- Add salt dissolved in hot water.
- Add damp jeans.
- Run full cycle, then a second wash with detergent.
- Air-dry inside-out.
Aftercare & Fixing Colour
- Optional fixative improves washfastness.
- Wash separately for the first few washes.
- Turn inside-out and wash in cool water.
- Air-dry out of direct sunlight.
Troubleshooting
- Streaks → stir more often.
- Too light → use 2 packets or longer simmer.
- Thread didn’t dye → likely polyester (normal).
- Colour bleeding → rinse longer, wash separately.
- Patchy seams → massage seams during dyeing.
When Not to Dye
- High synthetic content jeans.
- Severely worn, thin, or holey jeans.
- Waterproof or coated finishes.
- Expensive branded jeans where dyeing voids warranty.
Sustainability Note
Reviving faded jeans extends lifespan and reduces landfill waste.
Final Checklist
☐ Pre-wash jeans (damp)
☐ Dissolve Jacquard iDye Black in boiling water
☐ Add salt
☐ Simmer/stir or run hot wash
☐ Rinse until clear
☐ Wash separately
☐ Air-dry inside-out
☐ Optional fixative for washfastness
Disclaimer: Follow Jacquard® iDye safety instructions.