Dyeing synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon requires special dyes because regular fabric dyes won’t bond with synthetic fibres. iDye Poly by Jacquard is designed explicitly for synthetic materials. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you dye synthetic fabric using iDye Poly:
What You’ll Need:
- iDye Poly packet (in the colour of your choice)
- A large stainless steel or enamel pot (not used for food)
- Water
- Stove (for boiling)
- Tongs or a stirring utensil
- Dishwashing gloves (optional, for handling hot fabric)
- Mild detergent (for post-dye washing)
- Ventilation or face mask (it can get a little smelly)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dye Bath
- Fill your pot with enough hot water to cover the fabric fully and allow it to move freely.
- Add iDye Poly packet (do not open it)—the outer packet dissolves in water.
- Add the enclosed Colour Intensifier if included (helps make the colour richer).
- Stir to dissolve and distribute the dye fully.
2. Add the Fabric
- Pre-wet your synthetic fabric to help it absorb dye evenly.
- Submerge it in the dye bath.
- Bring the pot to a rolling boil, then simmer for 30–60 minutes, stirring constantly to ensure even colour.
- Time depends on how dark and even you want the colour.
- Keep the fabric fully submerged and moving.
3. Check the Colour
- Colour will appear darker when wet, but will lighten when dry.
- If it looks too light, leave it in longer.
4. Rinse and Wash
- Carefully remove the fabric (gloves recommended).
- Rinse in warm water, gradually making it cooler until the water runs clear.
- Wash with mild detergent in warm water and rinse again.
- Air dry or machine dry based on fabric instructions.
⚠️ Tips and Safety:
- Use iDye Poly only for synthetics. For natural/synthetic blends, you can combine iDye (for natural fibers) and iDye Poly in the same pot.
- Use a dedicated dye pot—don’t use cookware you’ll eat from.
- Dye in a well-ventilated area.
- Protect surfaces from splashes and wear old clothes.
Dyeing is like layering transparent colour over a background. The original fabric colour mixes with the dye colour, so results vary depending on the base colour.
Colour Mixing Chart (Approximate)
| Base Color | Dye Color | Likely Result |
|---|---|---|
| White | Any color | Pure dye colour |
| Light Grey | Red | Muted burgundy |
| Pale Yellow | Blue | Greenish-blue |
| Light Blue | Red | Purple or mauve |
| Pink | Blue | Violet |
| Beige | Purple | Muddy mauve |
| Light Green | Yellow | Bright lime |
| Pale Orange | Blue | Brownish or olive |
| Medium Grey | Any color | Muted, dull tones |
| Black | Any color | Little to no visible change |
Tip: To achieve accurate results, always try to start with white or very pale fabric for dyeing.